Algerian Education Minister Nouria Benghabrit has held bilateral meetings with six education sector unions in an attempt to address their concerns and avoid a potential strike. The meetings come after the unions issued a two-day strike notice. The first meeting with the Union nationale des personnels de l'éducation et de formation (Unpef) was held recently but did not yield any significant results. The Unpef has expressed disappointment with the outcome of the meeting.
The Unpef's chargé de communication stated that the meeting did not provide any new information regarding the union's main demands. The union had raised concerns about the status of workers in the education sector and the need for clearer rights for union members within schools. The minister reportedly indicated that the implementation of a decree with retroactive effect depended on the direction générale de la fonction publique.
The unions are demanding the restoration of rights for categories of workers who were disadvantaged during reclassification. They are also calling for revisions to educational programs and methods, particularly in primary education, to better match the level of students. Additionally, the unions want improved training, working conditions, and schooling conditions, as well as a reduction in the number of teaching hours across all educational levels.
The intersyndicale de l'Éducation, a coalition of unions, has listed several demands, including the lifting of restrictions on union activities at local and national levels. They also want the maintenance of a mixed commission, proportional retirement, and retirement without age conditions. The coalition is further demanding the abolition of article 87 bis of the 2015 finance law and the creation of a specific bonus for common and qualified workers.
According to the Unpef, the minister's response did not adequately address these concerns, leading to increased tensions. The union has stated that it will continue to pursue its demands until they are met. A strike appears increasingly likely if an agreement is not reached soon. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges in Algeria's education sector.
The Unpef and other unions have been pressing for changes to address issues affecting education workers and students. Their demands focus on improving working conditions, educational quality, and union rights. The failure to reach an agreement has raised concerns about the potential impact on the education system.
The Algerian education sector has faced significant challenges in recent years, including disputes over worker rights and educational reforms. The current situation underscores the need for a resolution to prevent disruptions to the education system. Key issues remain unresolved, and further discussions are planned.
Key points
- Algerian Education Minister Nouria Benghabrit's meetings with unions have failed to produce an agreement.
- The unions are demanding improved working conditions, educational quality, and union rights.
- A strike appears increasingly likely if an agreement is not reached soon.
