By mohamedj.bah@awokonewspaper.sl
FREETOWN, SIERRA LEONE – The spectre of a potential strike looms over Sierra Leone’s university landscape as the Union of University Staff Associations sounds the alarm on unresolved grievances. In a recent position paper, the Union highlighted critical issues and warned of an impending work stoppage should their concerns go unheeded.
Central to their dissatisfaction is the government’s handling of allowances and salaries, which has cast a shadow over the well-being of university staff. The Union noted with concern that certain colleagues have experienced delays in receiving their allowances due to government actions. This stems from a decision for the government to manage 80% of salaries for a pilot period of two years, with universities responsible for covering 20% of allowances and staff not included on the Accountant General’s Payroll.
Such arrangements have placed a significant burden on universities, compounded by the government’s outstanding dues to these institutions for the Sierra Leone Government Grant-in-Aid (SLG). The situation is further exacerbated by a lack of timely subventions to the universities.
The Union’s discontent also extends to salary adjustments negotiated in 2020, which amounted to a 75% increase implemented in tranches of 50% and 25% in 2021 and 2022, respectively. However, in the face of prevailing economic circumstances and soaring inflation rates, the value of these increments has eroded significantly.
Calling for swift action, the Union has demanded a 100% increment on take-home salaries for university staff, viewing this as a necessary step to alleviate the dire conditions faced by these professionals.
Rent allowance issues have further aggravated the situation, as the Ministry of Finance has not disbursed payments since the salary takeover and approved increment in 2020. Additionally, concerns have arisen over the lack of established provisions for promotions through a University Court-approved process.
The Union’s statement explicitly underscores their stance: “We have therefore resolved to withhold our service if these requests are not addressed.” The institutions affected by these concerns include Njala University, Fourah Bay College, and Milton Margai Technical University.
As the Union of University Staff Associations rallies for their legitimate rights and an improvement in working conditions, the prospect of a strike looms large. Sierra Leone’s academic landscape could face disruption if these critical issues are not promptly and effectively addressed, underscoring the urgency of a timely resolution to avert any potential upheaval. MJB/15/8/2023
