Malta Federation of Organisations Persons with Disability (MFOPD) has expressed concern over action taken by the Malta Union of Teachers (MUT).

The Times of Malta reported in June that, according to the Commission for the Rights of Persons with Disability, the MUT's directive instructing Learning Support Educators (LSEs) of children with disabilities not to attend to children in school during exams  - because they are needed for invigilation -  is in breach of the children's human rights. The Commission made this argument in court.

In a statement about this situation, MFOPD President Marthese Mugliette said: "The Malta Union of Teachers (MUT) plays an important role in our society. As with every professional group, teachers have the right to be part of a union, and all members of society-including educators-have rights and responsibilities. We must never forget that the quality of education our children receive today shapes the leaders of tomorrow. Teachers and students are at the heart of that future."

"It is precisely because of this responsibility that MFOPD is deeply concerned and disappointed by the ongoing situation. We cannot understand how the MUT, at all costs, continues to push a message-directly or indirectly-that suggests students with disabilities are not equal to their peers. Such a stance goes against the principles of inclusion, equality, and human dignity," Mugliette wrote.

"It is unacceptable that parents of children with disabilities have had to resort to court action simply to ensure their children can benefit from the full educational experience their peers take for granted. Education is a right, not a privilege to be granted or withheld. The fact that only two parents were named in the injunction to stop the latest MUT directives does not mean this issue affects only their son. On the contrary, many students and their families are silently living this unjust reality. The mentioned parents have the courage to fight for others."

"As a union representing educators, the MUT should be leading by example."

MFOPD called on the MUT to rethink its approach and to work collaboratively to ensure that every student-regardless of ability-is given the tools, time, and support they need to succeed.