Allexer Namundjembo
Teachers represented by the Namibia National Teachers’ Union (Nantu) will receive a five percent salary increase in the 2026/2027 financial year and another five percent in 2027/2028 under a new multi-year agreement with government.
The outcome was communicated to members of the union’s Rundu branch in a report dated 21 February and issued from Rundu.
The document confirms that regional and national union structures have accepted the offer, bringing the negotiation process to a close.
“The Rundu Branch hereby presents the final outcome of the salary negotiations between the Union and the Government of the Republic of Namibia, together with additional updates affecting members,” the report seen by the Windhoek Observer states.
Under the agreement, there will be no transport allowance increase in 2026/2027.
A seven percent adjustment will apply in 2027/2028.
No housing allowance increase is provided for the 2026/2027 period.
Teachers in Grades 14 and 15 will receive a fixed monthly increment of N$700 from 2026 to 2028.
The report also outlines a regrading and benchmarking exercise scheduled for the 2028/2029 financial year. This process will include a review of housing allowances compared with other countries.
“The regional and national union structures have formally accepted the government’s offer, concluding the negotiation process,” the report reads.
Changes to the Public Service Employees Medical Aid Scheme (PSEMAS) will take effect on 1 April 2026.
Contributions for both the high and standard options will increase. Medical aid will cover 100% of medical costs without a levy, while a five percent levy on self-medication will remain.
“All agreed salary and PSEMAS adjustments will be effective from 1 April 2026,” the report states.
Meanwhile, the union also informed its members that official union tracksuits have been procured as a benefit.
The tender was awarded to Dinapama Manufacturing and Supplies. Production is expected to be completed by the end of February, with distribution to regions scheduled for March.
A data-capturing exercise will be conducted at schools to record subjects taught and whether teachers are formally qualified to teach those subjects.
Only members registered on or before July 2025 will qualify for the current batch of benefits.
Members were also informed that the 2026 SATO Games will take place in Maseru, Lesotho, from 20 to 23 August 2026. The participation fee is N$5 000 per member.
On housing finance, the report states that a home loan programme backed by the Government Institutions Pension Fund (GIPF) has started.
Kuleni Financial Services is facilitating the programme, with support available through First Capital Namibia.
The document further notes that a support fund of N$25 000 has been allocated to assist regional and branch activities.
Certain regional executive committee members who serve as school principals have been excused from union duties to avoid disruptions at schools.
The agreement follows years of tension over teacher salaries and working conditions.
In 2012, teachers staged nationwide strikes demanding increases of up to 40% after years without significant wage growth. Some initial government offers were rejected before a settlement was reached.
In recent years, teacher unions, including Nantu, have raised concerns about stagnant pay amid rising living costs.
