Title: The strike of assistants and heads of works at the University of Lubumbashi: a legitimate protest for the future of higher education
Since the press release signed on Monday, December 16, 2024, the assistants and heads of works at the University of Lubumbashi have announced an unlimited strike to denounce the Congolese government’s failure to comply with the commitments made in the Bibwa 1 and 2 agreements. This mobilization, which is a continuation of the general strike called by the professors and scientific and academic staff of the ISP, highlights the difficulties encountered by teaching and research staff in the current context of higher education in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
At the heart of the demands of the assistants and heads of works are crucial issues related to the recognition of their work and their remuneration. Indeed, the lack of will displayed by the Congolese government to support scientific staff with a decent salary and an adequate research bonus raises legitimate questions about the future of higher education in the country. The demands for payment of salary arrears extending over several months and the absence of an increase in the institutional bonus planned for T4s testify to the financial difficulties faced by assistants and heads of works at the University of Lubumbashi.
This strike, far from being a simple protest movement, reveals the profound issues facing higher education stakeholders in the DRC. Beyond salary demands, it questions the place of research and teaching in a society undergoing rapid change and facing numerous social, economic and political challenges. The role of assistants and heads of works in the transmission of knowledge, the training of future researchers and the production of knowledge is essential for the development of the country and the construction of a society based on knowledge and understanding.
Faced with this unprecedented mobilization, it is imperative that the Congolese government engage in constructive dialogue with the assistants and heads of works at the University of Lubumbashi in order to find lasting solutions to the problems raised. Recognizing the value and importance of the work of teacher-researchers, ensuring decent working conditions and supporting scientific research are essential prerequisites for ensuring quality higher education and contributing to the country’s development.
In conclusion, the strike by assistants and heads of works at the University of Lubumbashi is much more than a simple wage protest. It highlights the essential issues related to the future of higher education in the DRC and calls for a profound overhaul of the education system to meet the challenges of the 21st century.It is urgent that the authorities take into account the legitimate aspirations of teacher-researchers and commit to building together a better future for Congolese higher education.