University Of Zimbabwe Faces Backlash Over Meagre Pay For Replacement Lecturers

(MENAFN- The Arabian Post)

The University of Zimbabwe has sparked widespread criticism by offering adjunct lecturers a paltry US$5.50 per hour to replace striking academic staff, intensifying an ongoing labour dispute that has disrupted operations at the country's premier higher education institution.

Lecturers, represented by the Association of University Teachers , initiated an indefinite strike on 16 April, demanding a return to pre-2018 salary levels of US$2,250 per month for junior faculty. Currently, most earn less than US$300, supplemented by a Zimbabwe Gold component that, when converted, amounts to under US$200-an effective 87% pay cut.

The university's decision to recruit adjuncts at such low rates has been met with outrage from both academic and student communities. AUT leaders argue that the move undermines the quality of education and reflects a disregard for the welfare of educators.“We have subsidised this university for more than seven years,” said AUT spokesperson Professor Obvious Vengeyi.“On the contrary, they have plundered it.”

The strike has led to significant disruptions, with many classes suspended and students expressing concern over the continuity of their education. Tafadzwa Katsande, a representative from the Zimbabwe National Student Union , voiced solidarity with the lecturers, stating,“We understand your plight better because we are your children before you are our lecturers. Even if we don't attend classes for the whole semester, let it be so.”

The government's response has been mixed. Presidential Spokesperson George Charamba acknowledged the legitimacy of the lecturers' grievances, noting that President Emmerson Mnangagwa had approved a welfare proposal to address the issues. However, implementation has been delayed, leading to further frustration among the academic staff.

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In an attempt to quell the unrest, UZ suspended several AUT leaders, including President Phillemon Munyaradzi Chamburuka and Treasurer Obvious Vengeyi, citing charges of inciting unrest. These suspensions were later revoked following legal challenges and public outcry. Vengeyi commented on the revocation, suggesting it was a tactic to distract from the core issue of fair remuneration.

The situation escalated when police arrested three lecturers during a peaceful protest at the university's main entrance. Those detained included Professor Vengeyi, Dr Desmond Ndedzu, and Group Captain Boncase Mwakorera. The arrests drew condemnation from various quarters, with critics accusing authorities of suppressing lawful demonstrations.

Despite these challenges, the AUT remains steadfast in its demands. Lecturers have withdrawn not only their teaching services but also their participation in research and administrative duties. They have also ceased using personal resources, such as laptops and mobile data, for university-related work.

The broader economic context in Zimbabwe, marked by hyperinflation and currency instability, has exacerbated the crisis. Many lecturers report struggling to afford basic necessities, with some unable to pay for their children's education or meet daily living expenses. The AUT has highlighted these hardships in communications with university management, emphasizing the urgent need for salary adjustments.

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