Freetown, 16th September 16, 2026 — Public tertiary institutions across Sierra Leone were thrown into uncertainty today as the Union of Academic Staff Associations (UASA) commenced an indefinite strike, citing unmet demands for improved conditions of service and a 100% salary increment.
The strike follows the expiration of a 21‑day notice served on Government on August 13. UASA said it had engaged in good faith with the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE), the Conference of Vice Chancellors and Principals (CVCP), and the Wages and Compensation Commission (WCC), but no satisfactory resolution was reached.
In response, Minister of Technical and Higher Education Haja Ramatulai Wurie expressed concern that industrial action had begun while discussions were still ongoing. “The Ministry recognises and respects the concerns raised by academic staff and appreciates their important contribution to higher education and to His Excellency the President’s Human Capital Development agenda,” she said.
Minister Wurie highlighted Government’s past interventions, noting that lecturers received a 75% salary increase in 2021, implemented in three instalments and compounded to approximately 87%, followed by a further 15% increase in 2025. She added that Government currently pays about 83% of lecturers’ salaries, including leave allowances, and has ensured salaries are paid on time.
“Government must operate within the country’s fiscal realities and carefully consider what can be afforded and sustained,” she explained. “The request for a further salary review is receiving consideration, and Government remains committed to constructive dialogue rather than closing the door to engagement.”
The Minister confirmed that her Ministry and relevant authorities will meet with UASA tomorrow in hopes of reaching a fair and sustainable resolution. “Through mutual respect and good‑faith dialogue, we can work towards a solution in the interests of academic staff, students, and the higher education sector as a whole,” she said.
The strike, effective September 16, is indefinite, leaving thousands of students uncertain about the resumption of classes as negotiations continue.
