The General Union of Libyan Teachers has strongly condemned statements made by the acting Minister of Education in the outgoing Government of National Unity, Ali Al-Abed, describing them as a direct insult to Libyan educators.
In an official statement, the union said the minister’s remarks were “unbecoming of the dignity and national role of teachers.” It expressed deep regret and outrage, stressing that despite facing harsh conditions and numerous challenges, Libyan teachers continue to fulfil their educational duties with dedication and sincerity.
The union warned that any attempt to undermine the teacher’s dignity or question their integrity represents an affront to the value of education and the authority of the state itself.
It called on the acting Minister of Education to issue an immediate and public apology to all teachers and the entire educational community. The union also urged the Government of National Unity, the Libyan Government, the House of Representatives, and the High Council of State to take necessary measures to protect teachers’ dignity and restore their honour.
According to the statement, the union reserves its legal right to take further steps in defence of teachers’ status, asserting that the dignity of educators is a red line that must not be crossed. It emphasised that restoring respect to teachers is both a national and moral duty before being a union demand.
The controversy erupted after Minister Ali Al-Abed stated in a televised interview that “some teachers use drugs,” and suggested the need to “investigate every teacher’s history.” The remarks triggered widespread anger and condemnation across Libya’s educational and social sectors.
