A group of around 30 lecturers from the Tamazight department at the University of Abderrahmane Mira in Bejaia, Algeria, staged a peaceful march and sit-in to protest the management of their department. They are demanding the departure of the department head, citing poor management and chaos. The lecturers claim the head has created a toxic work environment, treating some staff unfairly and marginalizing others.
The lecturers have gathered 26 signatures for a petition calling on the university rector and faculty dean to address their concerns. They want to establish a serene and respectful work environment, free from intimidation and favoritism. The petition states that the current department head has engaged in behavior that undermines the dignity of lecturers and students, including making false reports and withholding information.
The protesting lecturers accuse the department head of several abuses of power, including unfair treatment of staff, harassment, and misappropriation of funds. They claim the head has created a culture of fear and intimidation, making it difficult for lecturers to perform their duties effectively. One lecturer described the situation as "intolerable," saying the head's behavior has damaged the department's reputation.
According to the lecturers, a new team was supposed to take over the department during the winter break, but the current head was maintained in her position through external interventions. The lecturers are frustrated that their concerns were not taken into account and that the new team was not given a chance to manage the department. They are calling for a change in leadership to restore calm and respect to the department.
The department of Tamazight at the University of Bejaia is responsible for promoting the Amazigh language and culture. The lecturers are committed to their work and want to create a positive learning environment for their students. However, they claim that the current department head has hindered their efforts, creating a negative impact on the department's reputation and effectiveness.
The university administration has not yet responded to the lecturers' demands. The situation remains tense, with the lecturers determined to continue their protest until their concerns are addressed. They are seeking support from the university rector and faculty dean to resolve the issue and restore peace to the department.
The protest highlights the challenges faced by academic staff in Algeria, where job security and working conditions can be precarious. The lecturers' demands for a better work environment and respect for their dignity reflect the need for improved governance and management in Algerian universities. The outcome of the protest will be closely watched by academic staff and students across the country.
Key points
- Lecturers at the University of Bejaia's Tamazight department protest against poor management and demand the departure of the department head.
- The protesting lecturers cite abuses of power, unfair treatment, and harassment by the department head.
- The situation highlights the challenges faced by academic staff in Algeria, where job security and working conditions can be precarious.
