Minister of Education, Honourable Simil Johnson, has confirmed that the Government of Vanuatu is not in a position to sign a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with the Vanuatu Teachers Union (VTU) at this time.

Speaking to VBTC News, Minister Johnson said the government has already made efforts during past discussions to reach an agreement, but the union has walked away from the talks multiple times.

“The government is no longer pursuing the signing of a CBA,” he said. “We made every effort in discussions, but I believe two or three times the VTU walked out. So, the government decided to move ahead with verifying the claims and starting the payments. The CBA is not on the table for negotiation anymore.”

The Education Minister also advise teachers currently working in schools not to join the ongoing strike action if their names are not listed under verified claims. He said the Teaching Service Commission will take such actions seriously.

“If you don’t have a verified claim and you join the strike, it will not be taken lightly,” Johnson stressed. “Your appointment and contract as a teacher will be reviewed. The future of our students is important, and while we’re processing claims, teachers must stay in school to teach.”

He emphasised that the government has not failed in its responsibility and that payments are currently being processed.

“All grievances and claims are being verified and paid,” he added. “There is no delay in payments — we’re progressing with the process.”

On the other side, the Vanuatu Teachers Union maintains that teachers will not return to classrooms until the government signs the CBA.