Volunteer school guards in Kirkuk rally for job security

KIRKUK, August 22 — Dozens of voluntary school guards gathered in front of the education directorate building in Kirkuk on Monday, demanding permanent contracts or job security, after waiting for over 14 years.

Thamer Khalaf, one of the protesters, spoke to 964: “Today, I came from Daquq district to participate in this demonstration and demand our rights. The government should seriously consider our case.”

I was young when I took on this administrative duty, and now I am approaching old age, yet I haven’t been appointed as a permanent staff member or offered a contract in the education sector. I’m still carrying out my responsibilities,” he said. “There’s significant injustice towards us. We number more than 500 guards, and all of us have families and children to support. Economic conditions are tough.”

“If our demands aren’t met, we will close the school gates at the beginning of the new academic year,” Khalaf added.