The Ministry of Education has made a decision to cancel all classes in the public school system, at least for today, Monday May 12, 2025.
This decision is in response to a press statement issued by the Antigua and Barbuda Union of Teachers (ABUT) indicating that its industrial action will continue today (Monday) despite the ministry of education indicating that as far as it is aware, all outstanding payments have been made to the respective teachers.
The ministry of education issued its own press statement overnight, advising parents and guardians that there will be no school on Monday.
“In light of the press statement issued by the Antigua and Barbuda Union of Teachers on Sunday evening of continued industrial action, the Ministry of Education, Sports and Creative Industries hereby informs parents and guardians that all classes scheduled for Monday 12th May, 2025 are canceled at public schools throughout the country and children should remain at home until all outstanding matters with the ABUT are settled and notice of resumption of classes is issued,” the ministry said.
It noted that security was at the forefront of the decision to have students remain at home.
“The closure of schools does not extend to public school teachers, who must continue reporting for duty.
“Additionally, there will be no disruptions to CSEC examinations that are being administered by the Caribbean Examinations Council,” the statement concluded.
In its public statement to teachers, the ABUT has reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing industrial action, citing the government’s failure to settle longstanding payments and respect collective bargaining agreements.
In a letter released on Sunday, union president Casroy Charles said the strike will continue on Monday, 12 May, and will persist until teachers’ demands are met or “there is consensus to offer grace to our employer”.
Charles urged members to stand firm in the face of what he described as misinformation and political scheming intended to undermine the union’s efforts.
“The leadership of the Antigua and Barbuda Union of Teachers implores you to avoid being employees who are ignorant to employment relations… proffered by cunning and crafty people in their deceitful scheming,” the statement read.
The union says the strike is in response to unpaid arrears dating back to 2018, including travel, telephone, and technical vocational allowances, as well as ex gratia payments owed to heads of department. Despite assurances, Charles said the Ministry of Education has yet to honour its obligations.
The release also noted that the Ministry issued cheques on Friday, May 9, but emphasized that the union’s position was always clear: “no industrial action will end until all outstanding payments or allowances are settled in their entirety.”
The union leader reminded members that dissent and opposition to the strike had been anticipated but urged them not to waver.
“Do not surrender your rights, nor interests, nor cower to anyone who opposes any collective decision made by our union,” Charles stated.
The strike, which affects both primary and secondary schools, has drawn mixed reactions from the public and officials. However, the union says it will not back down until teachers’ rights are fully honoured.
