The Bond of Teachers in Technical Education (BLTO) has urgently appealed to President Jennifer Simons to address the escalating challenges within the vocational education sector. In a formal letter, the union warned that without immediate action, the sector risks further deterioration. The BLTO highlighted that despite a meeting with Education Minister Dirk Currie on August 22, no follow-up discussions have occurred, despite assurances of a second meeting within two weeks. ‘Five weeks have passed without a response, while the issues persist unabated,’ the union stated. During a recent conversation with Robby Holband, Director of Vocational Education, it was revealed that the minister now insists on collective consultations with all education unions, a move the BLTO finds concerning due to the unique challenges faced by technical and vocational education. The union outlined six critical issues requiring immediate attention: policy reforms lacking field input, the abolition of LBO levels A and B, the overly rigorous C-level SATS, the transformation of the ATV program into a three-year course, the centralization of Agro education, and recruitment and policy concerns. Additionally, the BLTO raised alarms about compromised security and hygiene in several LBO schools due to overdue payments. The union has called on President Simons to intervene, ensuring separate consultations with Minister Currie and clarity on the promised second revaluation for teachers. ‘Vocational education is the backbone of our nation’s development. Only through expert policy and professional input can we preserve and strengthen this sector,’ emphasized BLTO Chairman René Bilkerdijk and Vice-Chair Jenifer Ballo.