By Isatou Sarr
The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MoBSE) has responded to a recent strike action by teachers in Region Two East, who abandoned their classrooms over unpaid allowances.
In a statement issued on January 28, 2026, the Ministry said some teachers in Region Two East (2E) walked out to demand arrears for their so-called “double shift” allowances.
MoBSE clarified that the term “double shift” did not accurately apply, as some affected teachers were not working in two shifts. The Ministry said the discrepancies regarding nomenclature have been reviewed and corrected in consultation with all relevant stakeholders.
The Ministry also noted that a special allowance for teachers in Region 2E, approved due to the area’s unique security challenges, will continue to be paid.
“It is unfortunate that while we are clarifying and correcting the anomalies, a group of teachers decided to strike and discourage colleagues from reporting to school,” the statement noted.
MoBSE emphasized its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of all teachers while warning that insubordination would not be tolerated. The Ministry said disciplinary action would be taken against those involved in organizing the strike.
“We strongly urge teachers who abandoned their classes today to return to their classrooms to avoid facing the consequences of their actions,” the statement added.
The Ministry assured teachers of the Gambian government’s continued support, through MoBSE and in partnership with the Gambia Teachers’ Union (GTU), recognizing them as critical stakeholders in delivering quality education.