Dear Teachers /Principals/Educators,
As we welcome another calendar year, on behalf of the National Executive of the Dominica Association of Teachers (DAT), (DAT), I want to express my deepest gratitude to you for your unwavering dedication, support and inspiration throughout the past year. Your passion for teaching has not only made learning enjoyable but has also shaped the minds and hearts of the students of our beautiful country for the better.
This year the focus of the DAT is on the theme: “Teachers Are the Foundation to National Development – Value Us”. This resonates deeply as we think of the important role you play in our society. Without teachers, there would be no other profession, since it is the teacher who fosters all professions, hence teachers play a pivotal role in the development of a nation.
Let us take a critical look at it. Teachers are not merely providers of knowledge and skills; they are the architects of the future, builders of society, and the very foundation upon which progress is constructed.
Imagine for a minute a nation where every child is inspired to dream, learn, and grow. Such a vision is realised through the dedication and hard work of teachers. Teachers shape young minds, instilling in them the values, skills and knowledge necessary to navigate a complex world. Your influence extends far beyond the classroom; you cultivate critical thinkers, innovators, and leaders to tackle the challenges of tomorrow. Think of a little four and half year old entering kindergarten with little or no skills of numeracy and literacy, and fifteen to twenty years later you walk into a bank, a health centre or a hospital and that student is right before you to serve you. You most definitely played a role in that child being where he/she is today, making a valuable contribution to the country.
My fellow teachers, Education is a powerful tool for development and everyone knows that. It reduces poverty, fosters economic growth, and promotes social cohesion. When investments are made in teachers, it [trickles] into investments in the future of our nation. Research shows that skilled and motivated teachers lead to better student outcomes, which contribute to the prosperity and stability of a nation.
Yet in spite of all this, the recognition of our contribution is often overlooked. At most time it is only said in mere words, rather than substance. Teachers deserve respect, support and adequate resources. We need to ensure that our voices are heard in policy-making, that professional development opportunities are provided and our working conditions, including our wages reflect this important role we play in nation building. We anticipate the long awaited Primary Schools restructuring as was done for Government Secondary Schools in 2021 and was pronounced by our Honourable Prime Minister, in his 2022 Independence Day Message on November 03, to have taken place in January 2023. However, for whatever reason that did not happen but was formally agreed in the 2024-27 New Collective Agreement between the Government and TheDAT to commence in January 2026. We also anticipate that the salaries of Early Childhood Educators be adjusted in light of the revised minimum wage implemented in December 2025.
The DAT will continue to advocate for a culture that values educators, promotes their well-being and honours their contribution. We will continue to empower you, to continue to elevate the entire education system, creating a ripple effect that benefits our society as a whole.
To the families of teachers who passed away in 2025, we again extend our deepest condolences, and to all teachers, we urge you to continue to give your best but also be mindful of your health and well-being.
In conclusion, let us remember that we, teachers, are the foundation of national development. We are not just educators; we are the catalysts for change. As we move forward, let us work together to value and uplift the teaching profession in Dominica for the benefit of our children and the future of our beautiful country, Dominica.
A blessed, productive, healthy, and spirit-filled 2026 to you all.
Mervin Alexander
President
Dominica Association of Teachers (DAT)
