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University of Zambia (UNZA) lecturers are demanding that the government clears a debt exceeding K200 million owed to them in arrears accumulated over nine years.
The lecturers, represented by their unions including the University of Zambia Lecturers and Researchers Union (UNZALARU), University of Zambia Professional Staff Union (UNZAPROSU) and University of Zambia Allied Workers Union (UNZAAWU), voiced their demands on Wednesday morning.
UNZALARU president Professor, Andrew Phiri, said that the lecturers at Zambia’s premier learning institution were owed over K200 million, including gratuities dating back to 2016.
“It is unfair for us to continue providing our services without receiving our benefits, especially when other workers in state institutions have been paid, “Phiri said.
He noted that despite the union’s 2022 demand for payment, the government released only K100 million, which was insufficient to cover the outstanding amounts.
Phiri expressed disappointment that the issue had not been addressed by the government for nearly two years, despite the outstanding debt affecting lecturers at the university.
Following a meeting with management on Tuesday, Phiri announced that a high-level meeting was scheduled for this Friday to discuss the matter further and seek a resolution.
“We urge all affected employees to stand united and apply pressure on the government. Our actions are crucial in ensuring our voices are heard,” Phiri said.
He concluded by stating that affected lecturers would convene next Monday to await positive outcomes from Friday’s meeting with UNZA management.
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