Explained: Why KUPPET rejected SRC’s 2026 teacher salary increase
By Aloys Michael, July 23, 2026Teachers have rejected the latest salary review for the 2026/2027 financial year, arguing that the proposed increment fails to address longstanding pay disparities, career stagnation and the rising cost of living.
The latest adjustments were expected to implement the second phase of the 2025–2029 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). Instead, teachers say the review offers little financial relief and falls short of what was negotiated.
One of the biggest concerns is the growing salary gap between teachers and other public servants in equivalent job groups. The union argues that educators earn significantly less despite performing duties within the same public service, with officers in higher grades reportedly taking home substantially more than teachers at comparable levels.
Teachers also want salaries harmonised across the public sector, saying equal job groups should attract comparable pay regardless of the employing institution.
The union further argues that teachers face slower career progression because promotions effectively stop at a lower salary grade than those available to other public servants. It says the ceiling limits advancement opportunities and denies educators access to higher-paying senior positions.
Beyond basic pay
Teachers also say the approved salary increase has been eroded by statutory deductions and the rising cost of living, leaving little difference in their monthly take-home pay. They argue that inflation and higher household expenses have reduced the value of the increment before it reaches their pockets.
The union is also pushing for the full implementation of the negotiated CBA, maintaining that the latest review does not reflect the commitments expected under the agreement.
Beyond salaries, teachers are demanding the release of pending payments for those who supervised the 2025 national examinations, saying some personnel are yet to receive their dues despite other categories of exam officials already being paid.
Healthcare has also emerged as a major concern, with teachers reporting continued out-of-pocket medical expenses for services they believe should be covered under the Social Health Authority (SHA. The union says these unresolved welfare issues have compounded frustrations over the latest salary review and wants them addressed alongside pay negotiations.
The union has maintained that it will continue pushing for salary harmonisation, full implementation of the 2025–2029 CBA and improved welfare for teachers.
It is also urging the relevant authorities to address delayed examination payments and healthcare concerns, warning that unresolved grievances could heighten tensions within the education sector.