Article: Persistent discontent among university professors in the DRC
In a context of growing social tensions, teachers at the University of Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo are making their voices heard. They denounce years of non-payment of salaries and express their frustration with precarious living conditions.
Demonstrations took place last Friday, bringing together several dozen teachers from UNIKIN, the country’s largest university. They demand payment of several years of unpaid salaries and threaten to continue their mobilization if the government does not take their legitimate demands into account.
David Lubo, president of the Association of Professors of the University of Kinshasa, highlighted the bad faith of leaders in the face of this alarming situation. He denounces the fact that the majority of the country’s budget is devoted to political institutions, thus leaving university teachers in oblivion. He believes that even those who manage to be paid are paid well below their grade and that this situation is unacceptable.
The lack of appropriate remuneration has dramatic consequences for university teachers in the DRC. Some have lost their lives in conditions of extreme poverty and many find themselves in situations of daily degradation and exploitation. This reality demonstrates the importance given by the country’s leaders to the situation of teachers, who do not seem to be a priority.
If no concrete measures are taken by 2024 to improve the situation of university teachers, David Lubo announces drastic consequences. He calls on deputies to take their responsibilities and act in favor of this professional category which faces great difficulties.
This demonstration by university professors in the DRC highlights a major problem in the country: the lack of recognition and consideration for teachers, who nevertheless play an essential role in the training of students and the development of education. It is urgent that the government take the necessary measures to remedy this situation and guarantee fair working conditions and remuneration for these higher education professionals.