Sierra Leone government orders striking university lecturers to resume duties

The Government of Sierra Leone has ordered all academic staff in public tertiary institutions to resume teaching when universities reopen on Monday, October 12, 2026. This directive follows a nationwide strike by the Union of Academic Staff Associations (UASA) that began on September 16.

The Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE) characterized the strike as unlawful, noting that negotiations regarding salary demands were already underway at the Wages and Compensation Commission (WCC) when the industrial action commenced. The government also questioned the legal standing of UASA as a bargaining body, stating it lacks a bargaining certificate.

While the lecturers are demanding a 100% salary increase, the government highlighted previous welfare improvements under President Julius Maada Bio, including a cumulative salary increase of 87.5% and an additional 15% approved for April 2025. The Ministry stated it remains committed to a “fair, lawful and fiscally sustainable resolution” through constructive engagement.