Image: Wode Maya ® X@wode_maya
By Open Chronicle Staff | Friday, February 6, 2026
PARAMARIBO — President Jennifer Simons met with a coalition of major education unions on Thursday to address the critical challenges facing Suriname’s education sector and to chart a path forward for the nation’s teachers and students.
The meeting included representatives from the Union of Teachers (BvL), the Alliance of Teachers in Suriname (ALS), the Federation of Organizations of Teachers in Suriname (FOLS), and the Christian Teachers’ Union (COB). The primary focus of the dialogue was to harmonize the immediate needs of educators with the long-term developmental goals of the country.
Education as a Pillar of Development
During the discussions, President Simons emphasized that education is the bedrock for growth in key national sectors, including agriculture, tourism, ICT, and the burgeoning oil and gas industry.
“Wherever we want to go with our country, education plays a key role,” the President stated. However, she acknowledged the current “difficult state” of the system, noting that both teachers and students are struggling under present conditions.
A Package of Demands
The unions presented a formal “package of wishes” to the head of state, detailing the urgent financial and professional improvements required by the workforce. While the President expressed optimism about addressing these needs, she reminded the unions of the country’s ongoing economic constraints.
She called for a focus on “low-hanging fruit”—immediate, achievable improvements—while the government works on a broader recovery plan. The President indicated that a report on what can be realized in the short term is expected within a few weeks.
The Road to 2028
President Simons framed the current period as a bridge leading toward 2028–2029, emphasizing that economic stability is vital to prevent further shocks. To fund the necessary improvements in the education sector, she noted that the state would need to focus on increasing its national income.
“The frequent conversations with the unions are a sign of hope,” Simons concluded, reaffirming her commitment to a continuous dialogue with those on the front lines of the classroom.