The Irish Federation of University Teachers is represented this week at the Annual Conference of the Ulster Teachers’ Union (UTU), with General Secretary Frank Jones and Deputy General Secretary Miriam Hamilton attending on the union's behalf.
UTU represents teachers and school leaders across nursery, primary, post-primary and special education sectors in Northern Ireland, and is a key voice in advancing pay, workload and professional conditions within the school system.
While IFUT organises in higher education, there is a strong alignment between the issues facing members across the wider education sector. Pressures relating to workload, resourcing, staff wellbeing and professional recognition continue to be felt across all levels of education.
Frank Jones, General Secretary of IFUT, commented:
“There is a clear overlap in the challenges facing educators across the system. Whether in schools or higher education, staff are dealing with increasing workload demands and the need for proper recognition of their work. Engagement with colleagues in UTU is an important part of strengthening our collective voice.”
Deputy General Secretary Miriam Hamilton added:
“Attending the UTU conference provides an opportunity to engage with colleagues across the education sector and to share perspectives on common challenges. Strengthening these connections is vital in ensuring that unions can respond effectively to the issues facing members.”
IFUT values its continued engagement with sister unions across Ireland and beyond. Participation in the UTU Annual Conference reflects a shared commitment to advancing the interests of members and improving conditions across the education sector.