Under the umbrella Forum for Academic Staff in Public Universities of Uganda (FASPU), lecturers in government owned universities have continued to remain united despite several threats from the top leadership of their respective universities.
Campus Bee has received communication that lecturers across all universities in Uganda kicked off their strike when the university began online lectures on 8th February 2021. The students have entered week two of the semester but they have not received a single lecture up to now.
According to the latest communication from Dr. Deus Kamunyu Muhwezi the FASPU Chairperson, all lecturers should remain united until the government fulfills President Museveni’s directive to enhance their salaries.
“Around the same time last year, we were struggling to secure 179.24bn to enable all of you get your fair share of salary enhancement as the President had earlier directed. Unfortunately and in the circumstances, only 50bn was released for FY 2020/21. This money was distributed amongst us amidst disagreements on whether it should only be used to fully enhance Assoc. Profs and above or be shared equitably across ranks as before. Majority of you were in agreement that we should share 50bn equitably as before.” Kamunyu wrote to FASPU members.
Kamunyu further called upon the lecturers to respect the core principle of unity and work towards supporting one another as an academic house. According to Kamunyu, FASPU’s main goal is to secure the remaining 127.24bn before they resume teaching.
“This time again, with no progress on securing the remaining 127.24bn, you decided to go on a sit down strike beginning February 6th, 2021. This is to pave way for negotiations to enable the rest of the staff to get their fair share. This certainly comes with unnecessary threats and maneuvers to fail your resolution. I request you to respect the core principle of unity and work towards supporting one another as an academic house. This has been so for many years.” He added.
The FASPU leader also assured the members that the association is working tirelessly to secure the money following President Museveni’s 2019 directive.
“FASPU is working around the clock to secure a commitment that is favourable and respectful of HE the President’s 2019 assurance to all of you. Usually, this takes your maximum cooperation and respect for each other. “ Kamunyu assured the members.
The Ministry of Education recently allowed all universities to reopen in a staggered manner starting 1st March 2021.
