Support the TAFE Teachers!

During March, TAFE teachers throughout New South Wales staged a one-day strike.  They were striking not for better pay, or for better conditions for themselves.  They struck so low income earners could still afford to go to TAFE and be educated.  It is indeed commendable that they sacrificed a days pay for the more needy.

The Carr Government intends to raise student fees.  Of course It acts under the mantra of economic efficiency.  Ultimately Carr wants a privatised TAFE system.  But the price of this will be (if Carr is successful) many thousands of students deprived of their education.  Those who receive social security will have their fees paid for.  But there are thousands who don't qualify for free education because they have been pushed out of the social security system, or are just low wage earners.  They will be the victims of the new fee rises.  Teacher are concerned and so the should be.  The Carr agenda will attack everyone!

Free education should be a right!  Whilst it is a myth that unemployment will be saved by a highly trained workforce, individuals should have training and education as an option to improve their chances of employment. . Education Should also be for personal development and not just career oriented.  StandUp! supports unity between TAFE staff, students, unionists and unemployed to defend out right to an education.  We commend the TAFE staff for their actions.