Freetown, 27th October 2026– The National Union of Sierra Leone Students (NUSS) has called for urgent dialogue between the Government of Sierra Leone and the Union of Academic Staff Associations (UASA) as the ongoing industrial strike continues to disrupt academic activities at tertiary institutions across the country.

In a statement issued following consultations with student leaders and other stakeholders, NUSS expressed concern over the impact of the strike on students, warning that prolonged disruptions could have serious consequences for teaching, examinations, research and graduation schedules.

The student body acknowledged the concerns raised by lecturers and academic staff regarding salaries, welfare, working conditions, and the implementation of the reviewed Conditions of Service, noting that academic staff deserve adequate support to deliver quality education effectively.

“NUSS recognizes and appreciates the legitimate concerns of academic staff,” the statement said, adding that improved conditions for lecturers are essential to maintaining standards within the higher education sector.

However, the union stressed that students should not become the unintended victims of a dispute between academic staff and government, especially as the strike continues to affect academic calendars nationwide.

The student leadership appealed to UASA to resume negotiations with government and consider suspending the strike to allow learning activities to continue while discussions are ongoing.

The appeal, NUSS noted, is not intended to undermine the demands of lecturers but rather to protect the educational future and welfare of thousands of students across the country.

At the same time, the union called on the Government of Sierra Leone to urgently address the concerns of academic staff, intensify negotiations and work towards a fair and sustainable agreement that responds to their welfare and employment conditions.

NUSS emphasized that dialogue remains the most effective path to resolving the impasse and preserving stability within the tertiary education sector.

“Government needs its lecturers, lecturers need government’s support, and above all, students need their lecturers,” the statement declared.

The union further urged both parties to place students and the future of higher education at the centre of ongoing discussions, reaffirming its willingness to support any constructive effort aimed at achieving a peaceful and lasting resolution.

The call comes amid growing concern among students and parents over the uncertainty facing the academic year, with many hoping for a swift settlement that will allow normal academic activities to resume.