Malta’s Teachers Silenced: ADPD Calls to Lift Colonial-Era Gag Order
Silenced for Decades: Teachers’ Voice Still Gagged in Malta’s Classrooms
In the heart of Malta’s capital, Valletta, at the historic St. Lucy Street, stands the Ministry of Education. Yet, within its walls, a colonial-era gag order continues to muffle the voice of teachers, a situation that the Alternattiva Demokratika (ADPD) party is now challenging.
A Silenced Profession: The Colonial Legacy
Dating back to British colonial rule, the gag order, known as the ‘Oath of Secrecy’, binds teachers to maintain silence about their work. While the colonial era ended in 1964, this relic persists, keeping teachers from discussing classroom issues, school conditions, or even student performance.
“It’s like teaching with one hand tied behind your back,” says Maria Azzopardi, a veteran teacher who has spent three decades in Malta’s classrooms. “We’re expected to educate the next generation, but we’re not allowed to speak openly about the challenges we face.”
ADPD’s Call to Action
ADPD has now called for the immediate lifting of this gag order, arguing that it hinders transparency, accountability, and professional development. “Teachers are on the frontline of education, yet they’re silenced when it comes to discussing their work,” says Michael Briguglio, ADPD’s spokesperson on education.
ADPD proposes replacing the gag order with a code of conduct that balances the need for confidentiality with the right to free speech. “We’re not advocating for teachers to discuss individual students or share confidential information,” Briguglio clarifies. “We’re saying they should be able to talk about their work, their ideas, and the challenges they face without fear of repercussions.”
The Road Ahead
ADPD has submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Education, calling for the immediate lifting of the gag order and the establishment of a task force to draft a new code of conduct. The party is also encouraging teachers to share their experiences and ideas to shape this new policy.
“We’re not just fighting for teachers’ right to speak,” Briguglio says. “We’re fighting for better education, for a more open and transparent system. We’re fighting for Malta’s future.”
As the debate unfolds, one thing is clear: the echoes of colonial rule still resonate in Malta’s classrooms. But with ADPD’s call to action, the tide may finally be turning, and the voice of Malta’s teachers could soon be heard loud and clear.
