Govt Bows to Lecturers’ Demands

Zim Now Writer

The government has conceded to demands by striking university lecturers following a wave of protests over poor remuneration and working conditions.

Lecturers from the University of Zimbabwe, under the banner of the Association of University Teachers, held demonstrations calling for salary reviews and improved conditions of service.

Their actions triggered suspensions by UZ Vice-Chancellor Paul Mapfumo — decisions that were later reversed. Despite arrests and intimidation, lecturers persisted, eventually securing legal clearance to continue their demonstrations. Last week, UZ officially lifted the suspensions.

In response, Presidential Spokesperson George Charamba announced that President Emmerson Mnangagwa had stepped in to resolve the lecturers’ grievances. Posting on X, Charamba said, “YOU HAVE BEEN HEARD!!! Government is addressing the welfare of University Lecturers... The Chancellor, Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa, had long approved recommendations which should have put this matter well behind us.”

Charamba added that delays in implementing the president's approved measures — including salary adjustments — were caused by unnamed government officials.

The UZ strike not only drew attention to lecturers earning as little as US$230 per month, but also exposed allegations of a shadow economy within academia, where qualifications are reportedly sold.