The continuing crisis at the University of Comoros has led to an indefinite strike by teachers and administrative staff. For two weeks already, the 600 employees of the university have been demanding payment of their unpaid salaries and the resolution of an institutional crisis which has lasted for six years. This strike movement is seriously disrupting the lives of thousands of students, as the start of the academic year is fast approaching.
The main demand of the strikers is the establishment of the institutions of the University of the Comoros, in particular the election of a president, heads of components, a board of directors and a scientific council. According to Abdou Saïd Muignidaho, general secretary of the teachers’ union, the start of the academic year cannot take place until these institutions are put in place.
On the side of the university administration, it is assured that efforts are underway to resolve the crisis. Ibouroi Ali Tabibou, university administrator, says the government is doing everything possible to find a solution. He emphasizes that the union’s requests have been taken into account and that the three months of unpaid wages are already available, ready to be paid as quickly as possible.
However, the strikers remain inflexible on their demands. They insist that payment of salaries and resolution of the institutional crisis must be met before they return to classes. The consequences of this strike are already being felt by students, whose studies are severely disrupted. If no solution is found quickly, the situation risks getting worse and compromising the 2022-2023 academic year.
It is therefore crucial that the authorities take rapid and effective measures to resolve this crisis at the University of the Comoros. Students, eager to continue their studies in optimal conditions, are impatiently awaiting an end to the crisis. Let us hope that the stakeholders will reach a satisfactory agreement, thereby securing the future of higher education in the country.