Ei-iE

Hundreds of people have taken part in the culmination events that unravelled today in Buenos Aires, Argentina, showcasing the support of an entire continent for quality education, and reflecting the will of a region that will not let go off its political achievements.

Meetings with political leaders and with Latin American members of Education International (EI), demanding more investment in education have marked the culmination events of the Unite for Quality Education campaign in Buenos Aires.

EI General Secretary Fred van Leeuwen brought the key messages of the campaign to the very heart of Argentinian politics. In two meetings with the President’s chief cabinet minister and representatives of the national Congress, he has stated the world’s teachers’ support for more investment in education. This is an on-going debate in the country, with unions demanding a raise of education spending to 8% of GDP, and a new law on higher education to increase inclusiveness and equity.

In the afternoon, an overcrowded Teatro Gaumont in the heart of the city hosted members from 15 different countries joining their forces in a big celebration. Students, parents and teachers chanted together, listened to a youth orchestra, and heard van Leeuwen speak - in Spanish - about the achievements of trade unions in the region since the mid-90s, away from the Washington Consensus’ neoliberal policies towards quality public education for all. He strongly criticized the harmful action of vulture funds on public services in general and education in particular, and expressed his support to the militants of Latin American trade unions for their courage and long-dating struggle against oppression and for social justice.

World Teachers’ Day

Quality education will also be a focus point during World Teachers’ Day, 5 October, when teachers around the globe will be celebrated in classrooms, villages, and cities for their tireless dedication to the profession.

To make October 5 a day to remember, EI is calling on all members and colleagues to take part by having their voices heard to ensure world leaders know how important a quality teacher is in helping students reach their full potential.

Beginning at 12:00 noon, EI is asking everyone to ‘Push the Button’ by emailing, texting, or tweeting your messages of support for quality education directly to UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon. Click here for more information.