Staff of University of Bahr El Ghazal Continues with Strike for Second Day
The teaching and non-teaching staff of the University of Bahr El Ghazal have entered their second day of a strike that commenced on February 6, 2024. The strike was initiated in response to an ultimatum issued by the university to the government of South Sudan, demanding the immediate payment of salary arrears spanning over five months.
The decision to go on strike was not taken lightly by the university staff, who have faced financial hardships due to the delayed salary payments. The arrears have significantly impacted the livelihoods of the employees, making it increasingly difficult for them to meet their basic needs and fulfill their financial obligations. Despite numerous attempts to engage in dialogue with the government and find a resolution, the university staff felt compelled to take this drastic step to draw attention to their plight and demand immediate action.
Among their primary demands are the payment of five-month salary arrears, medical coverage, and reimbursement for flight tickets dating back to 2020. The lecturers, who have been tirelessly dedicated to their profession, find themselves in a precarious financial situation due to the prolonged delay in receiving their salaries. This has not only impacted their personal lives but also hindered their ability to provide quality education to the students at the university.
The lack of medical coverage has left the staff vulnerable, as they are unable to access proper healthcare services for themselves and their families. It is essential to note that these lecturers play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the nation by imparting knowledge and skills to the students. However, their dedication and commitment are being undermined by the government’s failure to provide them with the necessary support and benefits they deserve.
The reimbursement for flight tickets since 2020 has become a pressing concern for the staff. Many lecturers have had to bear the financial burden of purchasing their own flight tickets for official purposes, only to be left waiting for reimbursement that never materializes. This not only places an undue financial strain on the staff but also raises questions about the government’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations towards its employees.
The lecturers’ demands for payment of salary arrears, medical coverage, and reimbursement for flight tickets are legitimate and deserve urgent attention. It is crucial for the government of South Sudan to address these issues promptly, as continued neglect will only exacerbate the current situation and further hinder the smooth functioning of the institution.
The Secretary General of the lecturers’ trade union, Emmanuel Bol, expressed the unwavering determination of the staff of the University of Bahr El Ghazal to continue their strike for a second consecutive day. Bol emphasized that their decision to stay away from work was not taken lightly, but rather as a last resort to draw attention to their pressing concerns that have long been ignored.
Citing a lack of response from the government, Bol reiterated that the strike would persist until their demands were adequately addressed. The lecturers’ trade union has been advocating for improved working conditions, including fair compensation, better resources, and professional development. Bol emphasized the vital role that the university staff plays in shaping the future of education in the country, and stressed that their demands were not only for their own benefit but also for the betterment of the entire educational system.
