He told the Chronicle that Guyana Teachers Union (GTU), which initiated the work stoppage to back demands for more pay and better working conditions, has replied to a letter he sent, saying the ministry is willing to engage in fresh discussions.

Ally said the reply indicated that GTU is ready to take steps for ending the industrial action, provided the terms of resumption can be agreed.

He said the ministry is encouraged by this development and will be studying it with a view to responding in due course.

Meantime, Ally said the ministry has been receiving complaints of harassment by union officials using coercive methods on teachers who have not struck while some headteachers have been closing school buildings and, by doing so, preventing those who want to from going to work.

He said, in some instances headteachers have even been telling schoolchildren to stay home as there will be no classes, to create a facade that their action has been effective.

Ally said the ministry is advising teachers who reported for duty but cannot gain access to their schools to report to the respective Education Departments and avoid deductions from their salaries.

He also spoke of indications that some school heads might be attempting to manipulate teachers attendance registers by inserting false information to cover up for those striking.

Ally said the ministry is taking a serious view of the matter and will meticulously audit the books to verify the true situation.

At another level, Chief Education Officer Ed Caesar has written to headteachers, reminding them to make adequate arrangements for candidates preparing for examinations to be taught during this period of disruption.

The various Education Departments have been directed to remind headteachers of their obligations and responsibilities as regards such tutoring, Ally said.

Heads of Education Departments countrywide are required to ensure that headteachers provide written action plans to address the issue of tuition for children about to take exams, even if they require them to attend classes outside of the regular school hours, Ally emphasised.

He said, based on recent reports received by the ministry, teachers are increasingly returning to their jobs and advised them not to be misled by the union and deny education to students, especially those about to sit examinations.