Agenda Profile: Signe Kivi
Draft law amending the Basic Education and Upper Secondary Education Act and the Vocational Education Institutions Act (director certification and teacher career model) (653 SE) - first reading
2025-06-18
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political stance centers on the practical implications of the draft Education Act (653 SE), particularly regarding the status and minimum wage of teachers lacking formal qualifications. The speaker relays concerns voiced by several educational organizations, noting that these teachers could potentially be part of the solution by introducing diverse backgrounds into schools. The stance itself is cautious and framed as a series of questions, seeking the Minister's response to the concerns raised.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of the specific characteristics of the education sector workforce, drawing attention to the number of unqualified teachers (4210) and the associated salary issues. They are well-versed in the legislative process, referencing the prolonged deliberation of the draft bill within the Culture Committee. Furthermore, they are familiar with the key organizations in the field, which they specifically identify as the senders of the letter.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is formal and interrogative, addressing the minister and director directly. The speaker employs a logical appeal, relying on specific data (4,210 teachers) and the written concerns expressed by authoritative organizations (e.g., the Teachers' Union, the Association of Cities and Municipalities). The tone is neutral and informative, acting as a mediator of external concern.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker has actively participated in the proceedings of the bill within the Culture Committee, citing extensive prior work. Their current approach involves submitting specific and detailed questions to the Minister during the first reading of the legislative process.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The speaker is not expressing direct opposition to the minister or the bill itself, but rather conveying a concern that has been raised by six organizations representing education and local authorities. The criticism is directed at the provisions of the bill concerning the loss of minimum salary status for teachers who lack qualifications. The speaker presents this concern in the form of a question in order to receive clarification from the minister.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker refers to the handling of the draft bill in the Cultural Committee, noting it was done "in quite significant consensus," which demonstrates a willingness to cooperate in the legislative process. He/She also cooperates with organizations in the field of education, bringing their concerns before the Riigikogu (Parliament) and acting as their spokesperson.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national education policy and the career model for teachers. The acknowledgment of local government concerns is highlighted by the mention of a letter from the Association of Cities and Rural Municipalities, which adds a regional dimension to the issue.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives address labor issues in the education sector, focusing directly on maintaining the minimum wage for teachers without qualifications. Concern is expressed about a potential drop in the wage level, which would affect 4,210 teachers.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue is education and the teacher career model, particularly the effect of qualification requirements. The speaker stresses the value of teachers who lack formal qualifications but who bring a different background to schools, highlighting the importance of diversity.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
Legislative focus is currently directed at the draft Act amending the Basic School and Upper Secondary School Act and the Vocational Educational Institutions Act (653 SE), which addresses the certification of principals and the career model for teachers. The speaker is participating in the first reading of the bill as the person posing questions and conveying concerns.
2 Speeches Analyzed