Ei-iE

Over the last year the Global Unions organised five sub-regional workshops on HIV and AIDS in Africa which were attended by national trade union centres and unions. EI affiliates played a key role in these events.

1. What is your opinion on the recent performance of teachers’ unions?

The teachers’ unions have been very active. I was struck by the fact that teachers’ unions already have leadership and staff with a high level of knowledge on HIV and AIDS. They are amongst the first to involve members living with HIV and AIDS into their activities. Also quite significantly, teachers’ unions have been busy developing policies which provide them with a strong basis for their programmes and activities.

2. Is there a role for teachers’ unions in the fight against HIV and AIDS at the national level?

Very much so. Teachers are the educators of the nation. During the workshops they provided eye-opening information to other unionists. It is very important that teachers take up their role and connect to other unions and the trade union centres at the national level. By doing so, the input of teachers can be optimised. Teachers have a dual role - as community models and as parents.

3. How are the Global Unions moving forward in Africa?

The labour movement is crucial in making changes possible. HIV and AIDS workplace policies and collective bargaining agreements are instruments which we will keep working on in the coming years in relation to the ILO Code of Practice. It is our goal to bring on board and to convince other stakeholders such as UN agencies and civil society organisations of the commitment and crucial role of the labour movement in Africa.