Zimbabwe Teachers Union Plans Protest Over Salary Demands by March 28, 2025

The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) plans to protest on March 28, 2025, due to stagnant salaries amidst rising living costs. They demand a salary review, warning of nationwide action if their grievances are not addressed by the government. The union insists that current salaries are inadequate, and they advocate for a minimum wage of at least US$1,260 for teachers. This protest occurs alongside other social demonstrations but focuses solely on the economic welfare of teachers.

The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has announced plans to stage a protest on Friday of next week to voice their grievances regarding inadequate salaries. The union asserts that the government has failed to adjust teachers’ salaries in light of the escalating cost of living, compelling them to demand a salary review prior to March 28, 2025. Should their demands not be met, ARTUZ warns of nationwide mass action.

In its statement, ARTUZ called for all teachers to cease work on March 28, 2025, citing the government’s negligence in addressing salary adjustments that align with the rising cost of living. Historically, the government has reviewed civil servants’ salaries on a quarterly basis; however, they have yet to respond to calls for a salary review as the first quarter of 2025 approaches. This stagnation forces teachers to confront serious financial difficulties.

Currently, the lowest-paid teacher earns approximately US$300, which is insufficient to cover fundamental living costs such as education, healthcare, and housing, according to ARTUZ. The union maintains that the minimum salary for teachers should be at least US$1,260. ARTUZ emphasizes that the upcoming strike is dedicated solely to the issue of salary adjustments, despite its proximity to a protest organized by war veterans on March 31 calling for President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s resignation.

On the matter, ARTUZ expressed that the March 28 strike presents a crucial opportunity for teachers to unite and advocate for fair wages without political distractions. They acknowledge some teachers’ concerns regarding the timing of the strike but reiterate their focus is strictly on economic issues rather than political ones. Additionally, nurses at Sally Mugabe Hospital recently protested poor salaries and working conditions, highlighting ongoing issues within the health sector as well.

In conclusion, the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) is preparing to mobilize teachers for a protest on March 28, 2025, due to unaddressed demands for salary adjustments against a backdrop of rising living costs. The voices of educators echo the need for fair compensation, as many struggle to meet basic expenses. While coinciding with other protests, ARTUZ emphasizes its commitment to focusing solely on economic justice for teachers, further illustrating the urgent need for salary reviews within the education sector.

Original Source: allafrica.com