SINTA General Secretary John Houainima made the call as teachers begin their two-day celebrations yesterday, marking World Teachers Day.

Mr. Houainima says the problem of housing is more of an issue for those teaching in urban centres.

He says those living in rural areas are better off because communities build houses for them, "the same cannot be said for those in urban areas."

He says the housing problem of Honiara-based teachers can be solved through increased budgetary support.

Mr. Houainima says that this would improve morale amongst teachers, who are sometimes forced to live in squatter settlements, and should curb teacher absenteeism.

Grace, a form two teacher at a community high school in Honiara says that it is not easy for her to teach in Honiara. "I am thinking of moving back to my home province and teach there, it is embarrassing when I have to live with relatives because there is no housing."

The teachers' day celebrations coincides with the 25th anniversary of SINTA.