ISLAMABAD: Teachers serving in educational institutions of Overseas Pakistanis Foundation (OPF) on Friday staged protest to press the government and OPF to resolve their issues.

A number of teachers gathered outside the National Press Club, holding placards in their hands and raising slogans in favour of their demands.

The protesters said there were disparities in salary and allowances between the OPF school/college employees and their counterparts at the OPF head office. In addition, they urged the government to regularise OPF schools under the federal system, pushing for payscale upgrades, timely promotions and the disbursement of the 25pc ad-hoc relief announced by the federal government.

Improving working conditions and access to better educational resources also featured prominently in their list of demands. “We have been neglected for far too long. Its time the government recognises our dedication and hard work in shaping the future of Pakistan’s youth,” a protesting teacher said.

Another protester emphasised the need for reforms to ensure quality education. “Our demands are reasonable and essential for quality education. We will continue our protest until our voices are heard,” he said.

“We are the backbone of the education system, yet we are treated as second-class employees. Our colleagues at the OPF Head Office enjoy better pay and benefits, while we struggle to make ends meet,” he added.

“It’s not just about the salary; it’s about fairness. We deserve the same opportunities for growth and recognition as other government employees,” a female teacher remarked.

“We are entrusted with educating the next generation, yet we are deprived of the basic rights every teacher deserves. How can we focus on delivering quality education when our own futures are so uncertain,” she questioned.

“We are not asking for luxuries; we are asking for what is fair — timely promotions, proper allowances and working conditions that enable us to perform at our best,” a protesting teacher added.

Published in Dawn, September 28th, 2024