Cameroon university teachers declare indefinite strike

The National Union of Higher Education Teachers (SYNES) has declared an indefinite strike and a ‘dead academic year’ across all public universities in Cameroon. The decision follows an extraordinary session held by the union's national executive bureau to address deteriorating social conditions and unpaid allowances.

Key demands from the union include the full payment of arrears for the special research modernization allowance, the total settlement of academic debt—which some members claim has persisted since 2000—and an audience with the President of the Republic. Professors have also criticized the government for its perceived indifference toward social dialogue and university governance.

Union members highlighted severe working conditions, citing a lack of adequate infrastructure, offices, and basic amenities. They are calling for salary adjustments to meet international standards, noting that some professors earn as little as 500,000 francs. The strike, which takes effect immediately, threatens to disrupt the upcoming academic year and the pre-registration phase scheduled for early October.