In a bid to resolve the ongoing strike by educators in the Kurdistan Region, the Kurdistan Regional Government's (KRG) Education Minister, Alan Hama Saeed, disclosed on Sunday that they have formally requested financial support from Baghdad to address the demands of non-contract teachers. This move comes amidst prolonged protests by teachers over unpaid wages and the lack of permanent employment.

Speaking to reporters, Minister Hama Saeed revealed that the KRG has twice submitted lists of non-contract teachers to the Iraqi capital, awaiting a response regarding funding for their permanent employment. The delay in addressing this issue has led to disruptions in the academic calendar, with the start of the 2023-2024 academic year being delayed for over four months in several provinces, including Sulaimani and Halabja.

The striking teachers, representing various regions such as Garmiyan, Raparin, and Koya, have articulated their demands, which include timely payment of salaries, rightful promotions, and the provision of contracts to non-contract educators. Minister Hama Saeed emphasized that during a recent meeting with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani, he advocated for equitable treatment of Kurdistan Region's non-contract teachers in line with their counterparts across Iraq.

Highlighting the disparity, Minister Hama Saeed pointed out that while the Iraqi finance ministry has already taken steps to permanently appoint over 376,000 non-contract employees nationwide, including nearly 290,000 teachers and administrators, the Kurdistan Region's teachers are still awaiting similar assurances.

"We, as the KRG, will be responsible for offering contracts to the non-contract teachers once the necessary funds are allocated," stated Minister Hama Saeed, clarifying that their request is solely for the allocation of funds. He reiterated the commitment of the KRG to address the grievances of teachers within the framework of the federal budget.

The announcement from the Ministry of Education in January, pledging promotions and contracts within legal boundaries, contributed to the cessation of strikes in several regions. However, skepticism persists among some teachers regarding the government's promises, underscoring the need for tangible actions to address their concerns.

As unemployment remains a significant challenge in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, with many seeking opportunities abroad, the resolution of the teacher strike holds broader implications for the region's socio-economic stability and the welfare of its citizens.