Teachers across Algeria strike over low salaries
Algeria’s teachers went on strike on February 12th, protesting low salaries and worsening working conditions. This came after demonstrations were staged by students in January.
According to AfricaNews, students were left to stand outside shuttered classrooms when teachers began the two-day strike.
These teachers and students are taking political action during a time when public criticism of the government is becoming increasingly rare. This strike is especially important amid a gradual shrinking of rights.
The right to strike and union action is “a right enshrined in the constitution,” said Hafidha Amiréche, a trade unionist.
Teachers argue they are underpaid, and educated young people are emigrating out of the country, to chase further opportunities.
To address this, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has raised wages during his time in office, this included public sector workers such as teachers who saw their salaries go up by 37% in his first term.
However, teachers’ unions state starting salaries were barely above minimum wage or unemployment stipends.
The January student protests saw disillusioned students organising protests at their schools on social networks such as TikTok to express their anger about expensive supplemental courses and outdated curriculums that are not equipping them to maintain stable, well-paying jobs.
Algeria’s new Minister of Education, Mohamed Seghir Sadaoui has said he will address concerns over the curriculum, after a report from federal auditors highlighted the system’s “dysfunctions.”
AfricaNews, Maghrebi, Barlaman Today
Want to chase the pulse of North Africa? Enter your email address and name to receive our weekly newsletter.
