Kuala lumpur: The National Union of the Teaching Profession (NUTP) has urged that a special committee be set up immediately to address burdens faced by teachers, in line with the Education Ministry's (MOE) intention to reduce stress faced by educators.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, NUTP president Aminuddin Awang highlighted that the issue of teachers' burdens is longstanding, and emphasized the importance of a special committee to offer practical recommendations to the government. The committee would conduct a comprehensive nationwide study to address the concerns effectively.

Aminuddin expressed hope that the committee could devise solutions for the overburden of duties, which often extend beyond the professional responsibilities of teachers. He commented on the MOE's recent initiatives, which include abolishing non-high impact activities, appointing non-teachers as examination invigilators, and reducing the frequency of school administration reviews.

He noted that these initiatives stemmed from suggestions made by the National Education Advisory Council for the 2023/2025 session, which have been in effect since February last year. While the initiatives have alleviated some burdens, Aminuddin stressed the need for further improvements through phased efforts, categorizing the current initiatives as "quick wins."

Meanwhile, Assoc Prof Datuk Dr Mohamad Ali Hasan, president of the National Parents Teachers Association Consultative Council, emphasized the importance of continuous monitoring of these initiatives to ensure their success. He suggested increasing administrative assistants in schools to handle non-academic duties, allowing teachers to focus on their core competencies.

Dr Mohamad Ali Hasan advocated for adequate support staff such as laboratory and information technology assistants, underscoring the importance of teachers focusing on teaching and learning. He emphasized the need for studies to ensure teachers can concentrate on essential educational tasks, like helping students master basic skills, rather than being encumbered with non-teaching duties.