BURDENED by mounting debts and unpaid loans, many teachers fighting silent battles far beyond the blackboard.
Behind classroom smiles and lesson plans lie heavy hearts, as financial stress creeps from pay-slips into personal lives, pushing some to emotional breaking points while others take their lives.
It is against this troubling backdrop that Northern Province deputy permanent secretary Beauty Phiri appealed to teachers not to even harbour the thoughts of taking one’s life because of issues arising from debts.
Speaking during the commemoration of World Teacher’s Day, Phiri acknowledged the financial challenges many teachers face, including dhigh loan repayments, limited income opportunities, factors that often lead to emotional distress, anxiety and isolation.
Phiri encouraged teachers to break the silence and seek support through counselling, peer networks, or professional help.
“There is no shame in asking for help. Your life is more valuable than any financial burden. Come out to the open and up,” she said.
She pointed out that unspoken struggles have become a hidden crisis within the teaching community, warning that teachers, who are expected to nurture and guide others, often put their own well-being last.
She also addressed the issue of teacher upgrades, acknowledging that while it is not possible to upgrade all teachers at once, progress has been made.
“This year alone, the government has upgraded 1,481 teachers in Northern Province. Upgrading will continue based on the qualifications held by each individual and the number of years they have served,” she revealed.
She emphasised the need for transparency and fairness in the process, warning against practices that have previously undermined trust in the system.
“Issues of nepotism, lack of transparency, and corruption in the upgrading process must come to an end. There should be equity and fairness in how teachers are upgraded,” she said.
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba October 4, 2025
