University of Zimbabwe Lecturers Defy Government, Continue Strike Amidst Broken Promises
In a bold move, University of Zimbabwe (UZ) lecturers have vowed to continue their indefinite strike, citing the government’s failure to address their grievances despite assurances from President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s spokesperson. The lecturers, who are demanding better pay and working conditions, say they have seen no engagement from the government, leaving them with no choice but to press on with their industrial action.
At the heart of the dispute is the issue of poor remuneration, which lecturers argue has been severely eroded by inflation and the skyrocketing cost of living in Zimbabwe. They are seeking a salary pegged at US$2,250, which they claim is comparable to what their counterparts in other higher education institutions in the region earn. However, with a current net monthly salary of less than US$250 and ZiG 6,000, lecturers and their families are struggling to make ends meet, forced to use personal resources to conduct lessons and subsidize the employer.
The Association of University Teachers (AUT) spokesperson, Obvious Vengeyi, expressed frustration at the lack of progress, stating, "Nothing has changed since the comment alleged to be from presidential spokesperson Mr Charamba. Even that communication–we are still waiting for it to come formally. Nothing as yet. Hence, we are still in the trenches. The strike is indefinite." This sentiment is echoed in an earlier statement, where lecturers lamented the slow pace of the government and UZ in addressing their plight, resulting in the issuance of a Certificate of No Settlement.
As the strike continues, lecturers have withdrawn from attending meetings, invigilating, and marking examinations, highlighting the depth of their discontent. The AUT has made it clear that they will not back down until their demands are met, leaving the future of education at the University of Zimbabwe hanging in the balance. With no end in sight to the dispute, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the lecturers’ demands, and what the long-term consequences of this strike will be for the university and its students. One thing is certain, however: the lecturers will not be swayed, and their strike will continue until their voices are heard and their grievances addressed.
