Academic activities across public universities remain halted as the strike led by the Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU) enters its third week, stranding thousands of undergraduate students.
Despite several rounds of consultative meetings between union officials, university councils, and the Ministry of Education, negotiators have yet to agree on a binding return-to-work formula.
Core Grievances Behind the Work Stoppage
"Lecturers will not return to lecture halls until the government honors agreed-upon collective bargaining provisions and clears statutory pension arrears," stated UASU leadership.
The primary demands behind the ongoing strike include:
Unpaid Salary Increments: Implementation of deferred salary adjustments under the 2021–2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
Unremitted Pension Funds: Statutory deductions withheld by university administrations without remittance to pension schemes.
“Public university learning remains suspended as negotiations between UASU and state negotiators stall over unremitted pension funds and salary increments.”
Institutional Funding Deficits: Addressing systemic capitation shortfalls across public universities.
Student Reaction: Student governing councils have voiced concern over disrupted exam schedules and delayed graduation ceremonies.
Parliamentary Intervention: The National Assembly Committee on Education has summoned ministry and union officials for a mandatory conciliation meeting.
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How we reported this
Compiled from union advisories issued by UASU and press briefings from the Ministry of Education.
