Factors influencing the formation of splinter unions from the Zambia National Union of Teachers: a case of Southern Province
This study sought to establish the factors influencing the formation of splinter unions from the Zambia National Union of Teachers (ZNUT) in Choma, Pemba and Monze districts of Southern province of Zambia. The general objective was to establish the factors influencing the formation of splinter unions from ZNUT. It was a qualitative study which utilised a descriptive survey design and the method of collecting information was by in-depth interviews. A sample selected by purposeful and snowball sampling consisted of 15 teachers, 3 members of the four men committee, 4 head- teachers, 4 unionists from the district level and 4 from the provincial level. The data was analysed thematically. The findings established that there are financial, organisational and social reasons that led to the formation of splinter unions. Under financial reasons, the study established lack of income generating activities, limited international support, poor funding due to periodical allocations and un even distribution of union funds. Under organisational reasons, lack of accountability, lack of efficient leadership from school to national level, poor representation, lack of transparency among some union representatives and loss of trust and confidence were established. Under social reasons the study revealed large membership, attraction by other services in other unions, lack of consultations to grass-root members, failure to give support in times of need and discrimination in service provision. Based on the above findings, the following recommendations were made, the union must take up representation as a core business and represent all members equally, It should expand from its focus on traditional core functions to include the establishment of sustainable schemes that have significant impacts on the sides of members. The leaders also need skills on how best they can attract new members and retain current ones. The union must strive to handle members’ grievances as soon as they are brought to their attention and all members should take part in decision making of the union. Finally, this study recommends that a future study should be carried out to assess how many splinter unions intend to re-join the mother union ZNUT?
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