By Francis Chipalo
Lecturers at the University of Zambia (UNZA) have demanded that government clears dues owed to them and accrued for over 9 years.
The lectures made the demands this morning through their unions comprising of UNZAAU and Allied Workers Union, UNZAPROSU – Professional Staff Union and UNZALARU – Lectures and Researchers Union.
Speaking on behalf of the unions, UNZALARU president Andrew Phiri disclosed that the tutors at the country’s highest learning institution are owed about K1.5 million in among other benefits, gratuities.
Prof. Phiri stated that it was unfair for the academicians to continue offering a service without getting their benefits.
“The working conditions at UNZA are very terrible. There must be decency at a workplace, so we demand government clears the debt owed to us because we know they are capable of doing that,” said Prof. Phiri amidst jubilations from members that gathered at the graduation square.
Meanwhile, Prof. Phiri has challenged his colleagues to stand up and demand for what is owed to them.
“You are offering a service in exchange for money. When you do not stand up and put pressure on government, they take it that all is well with you when infact not. Let us unity because we are all starving,” he urged the audience.
Prof. Phiri added that arising from Tuesday’s meeting with management over the matter, a high level meeting slated for this Friday has been called.
He added that the affected employees will convene on Monday next week and that they expect nothing but good news from Friday’s meeting.
