President of the Jamaica Teacher’s Association (JTA) Mark Malabver says the Jamaica Teaching Council (JTC) Bill must be governed by teachers and be free from political interference.

The bill was passed in Parliament in April by way of majority vote, by the governing Jamaica Labour Party, despite objections by educators as well as the Opposition.

Earlier this year, Mr. Malabver said the bill is a disservice to the teaching profession.

Speaking at the Sam Sharpe Teachers’ College’s 50th anniversary celebrations yesterday, the JTA President reiterated his objection to the draft legislation.

He demanded that the bill be governed by teachers.

In the meantime, he noted that the JTA will continue to advocate for teachers as well as negotiate for fair wages.