Staff at the University of Continuing Education (UFC) in Bouira, Algeria, have been on strike since last Wednesday, protesting the conduct of the university's director. The strike has resulted in the boycott of all pedagogical activities and exams for the second semester, as well as recruitment competitions for the public sector. The protests have led to the postponement of these events to a later date. The staff members are demanding the director's resignation, citing arbitrary decisions and humiliating behavior towards them.
The striking staff claim that the director has failed to respect regulations and has not communicated effectively with them, leading to a deterioration in working conditions. They also accuse the director of mismanaging work schedules and resources, resulting in a significant workload and a lack of personnel. Despite their dedication to their duties, the staff members feel that their concerns have been ignored by the director. They are seeking a resolution to their grievances through a dialogue with the authorities.
One of the striking staff members explained that they have been working in difficult conditions for 17 years, with inadequate infrastructure and resources. The staff members feel that they are being unfairly sanctioned for non-existent faults and are not given the opportunity to explain themselves. They believe that the director's departure is necessary to alleviate tensions and establish a healthy dialogue between staff and management.
The director of the UFC was not available for comment, but in a previous statement to local radio, he denied the staff's allegations, claiming that he had simply applied the laws of the Republic. He accused certain "malintentioned individuals" of attempting to destabilize the institution. The staff members, however, remain committed to their demands and are seeking a resolution to the crisis.
In an effort to resolve the situation, a commission of inquiry was dispatched to the university on the day of the protest by the National Office for the Development and Promotion of Continuing Education. The staff members hope that this commission will help to address their concerns and find a solution to the crisis.
The strike has disrupted the normal functioning of the university, affecting students and staff alike. The staff members are seeking a return to normalcy and a resolution to their grievances through a constructive dialogue with the authorities. They emphasize that their demands are legitimate and based on a desire to improve working conditions and the overall functioning of the institution.
The situation at the UFC in Bouira highlights the challenges faced by educational institutions in Algeria, where staff and management often have differing priorities and perspectives. The outcome of the commission of inquiry and the response of the authorities will be closely watched by staff, students, and the wider community.
Key points
- Algerian university staff go on strike over director's conduct and demand his resignation
- Commission of inquiry dispatched to university to address staff concerns
- Strike disrupts university activities, affecting students and staff
