As the Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) continues to lobby for better compensation, President Mark Malabver has declared that unionism for the JTA is about justice and ensuring those serving are not exploited.

Mr. Malabver was speaking at the JTA’s Education Week 2026 National Church Service at the Buff Bay Independent Baptist Church in Portland yesterday.

He emphasized that unionism is used as the shield for protecting the dignity of teachers.

He cited the criticality of negotiations with the government underscoring that decisions made now will shape the lives of teachers going forward.

Mr. Malabver reiterated the call for teachers to be paid salaries that reflect their value.