Demonstration of university professors in the DRC to demand their unpaid salaries for several years
In a country where higher education is already facing many challenges, the situation of university professors in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is worrying. Indeed, many have not received their salaries for several years, which has led to persistent discontent within the university community.
On Friday, September 22, dozens of professors from the University of Kinshasa (UNIKIN), the largest university in the country, demonstrated in the government building to demand their rights. Faced with the government’s inaction in the face of their demands, they promised to continue the mobilizations until their salaries were finally paid.
This alarming situation was denounced by David Lubo, president of the Association of Professors of the University of Kinshasa. He points out the bad faith of the country’s leaders who, according to him, devote most of the budget to political institutions, thus leaving teachers in a situation of total misery. Some teachers even lost their lives in these conditions.
Furthermore, David Lubo highlights the fact that university professors in the DRC are paid much less than other civil servants, such as sweepers at the Ministry of Budget and Finance. He also denounces the lack of recognition of their rank, since even those who benefit from a higher status are not paid commensurate with their duties.
This fight for decent salaries and respect for the status of university teachers in the DRC is a reflection of a broader problem: the underfunding of higher education and the authorities’ neglect of teachers. Teachers, who play an essential role in training the country’s future executives, feel abandoned and exploited.
It is therefore urgent that the government takes concrete measures to resolve this situation. University professors deserve adequate compensation that reflects their expertise and contribution to society. It is also crucial to invest more in higher education in order to improve working and study conditions, and to guarantee a promising future for Congolese students.
In conclusion, the persistent discontent of university professors in the DRC for their unpaid salaries reflects a worrying situation in the field of higher education. It is time for the government to take its responsibilities and provide concrete solutions to put an end to this crisis which is seriously affecting the Congolese university community.