Gilgit Baltistan Teacher Strike
Gilgit Baltistan Teacher Strike: The ongoing teacher strike in Gilgit Baltistan (GB) has entered its 23rd day, with educators across the region demanding a one-point agenda: upgradation to BPS-16 after completing Certificate in Teaching (CT) and Bachelor of Education (B.Ed).
Thousands of teachers have taken to the streets, boycotting classes and staging protests, leaving schools paralyzed. The government’s silence has further fueled frustration, raising concerns about the future of education in the region.
Why Are Gilgit Baltistan Teachers on Strike?
The One-Point Demand: BPS-16 After CT & B.Ed
Teachers in GB argue that after obtaining professional teaching degrees (CT and B.Ed), they should be placed in BPS-16 instead of the current BPS-9 or BPS-14.
This demand aligns with policies in other regions of Pakistan, where teachers with similar qualifications receive higher pay scales.
Historical Context: Longstanding Grievances
- 2018 Agreement: Teachers were promised a pay scale upgrade, but the government failed to implement it.
- Previous Protests: Multiple strikes in the past five years have yielded partial solutions but no permanent resolution.
Latest Updates: Day 23 of the Strike
Protests Intensify Across GB
- Major rallies in Gilgit, Skardu, Astore, Ghizar and Hunza.
- Hunger strikes by female teachers gaining media attention.
- Social media campaigns (#GBTeachersStrike) trending nationwide.
Government’s Silence Frustrates Protesters
Despite multiple negotiations, the GB administration has not issued a formal notification approving the pay scale upgrade.
Student Education at Risk
- Over 500,000 students affected.
- Board exams may face delays if the strike continues.
Government’s Response: Delays & Empty Promises
Meetings with Education Ministry
- Three rounds of talks held, but no breakthrough.
- Chief Minister GB assures resolution “soon,” but teachers demand written guarantees.
Political Parties Take Sides
- Opposition leaders support teachers.
- Ruling party accused of neglecting education reforms.
What’s Next? Possible Scenarios
1. Government Accepts Demands
- Strike ends, teachers return to work.
- Students resume studies with compensation for lost time.
2. Strike Continues Indefinitely
- Education system collapses further.
- Potential judicial intervention.
3. Partial Agreement, Temporary Truce
- Teachers given assurances but no immediate implementation.
- Risk of future strikes if promises are broken.
FAQs About the GB Teacher Strike
1. What is the main demand of the protesting teachers?
They want an upgrade to BPS-16 after completing CT and B.Ed, as promised earlier.
2. How long has the strike been going on?
As of today, it’s the 23rd day of continuous protests.
3. Are private schools also affected?
Most public schools are closed, but private schools are open (though many students can’t afford them).
4. Has the government responded?
Only verbal assurances—no official notification has been issued.
5. What can the public do to support the teachers?
- Share updates using #GBTeachersStrike.
- Join peaceful protests.
- Pressure lawmakers for a resolution.
Conclusion: Will the Strike End Soon?
The Gilgit Baltistan teacher strike has reached a critical point. With no clear resolution in sight, students suffer the most. The government must act swiftly to prevent a full-blown education crisis.
