Education minister makes fresh promises to striking teachers

Moussa says steps have been taken to improve teachers' financial situation and dignity as strikers demand higher wages and promised productivity bonus

As the teachers strike enters day three, Egypt's education minister says major steps have been taken to improve educators' financial situation and protect their dignity.
Minister Ahmed Gamal El-Din Moussa, made the statement as he was visiting the El-Saedia Secondary Giza Preparatory School today, accompanied by Giza governor, Ali Abdel Rahman.
The minister also visited El-Agouza Preparatory Secondary School and toured classes, where teachers, who were not participating in the strike, conducted their normal duties.
Abdel Rahman insisted the situation is stable in most of the Giza governorate's schools, and stressed that classes are being conducted as usual, and that he is receiving hourly reports on how the strike is affecting schools.
He added that strikes and protests should be held outside of school hours.
Egyptian teachers began a nationwide strike on Saturday against the government of Prime Minister Essam Sharaf.
Teachers are demanding better wages, the release of a 200 per cent productivity bonus previously promised to public sector, among other things.