President Paul Biya declares war on striking teachers in Cameroon

President Paul Biya of Cameroon expressed frustration with recurring teacher strikes during his end-of-year speech, vowing to “take strong measures” to ensure education stability.

His comments came after teacher unions, particularly the ‘On a Trop Supporter’ (OTS) movement, organised numerous strikes in 2023 demanding better working conditions and payment of salary arrears.

“In addition to the various types of measures taken by the relevant ministries, more than 72 billion CFA francs were disbursed in 2023 to cover related expenses,” the President said, acknowledging government efforts.

However, he criticised the strikes for “holding children’s education hostage,” adding, “Let me be clear on this issue. As much as I am committed to ensuring that teachers practice their noble profession under appropriate conditions, I am equally uncompromising about respecting the right of our young people to education.”

The OTS movement, frustrated by unfulfilled demands, initiated its first strike in April 2023 and later disrupted Teacher’s Day celebrations with another in October.

“The government had failed to address our grievances,” declared an OTS spokesperson. Seven cabinet ministers subsequently held a press conference outlining actions like clearing salary arrears and providing housing allowances, but the OTS deemed these efforts insufficient and continued their strike. They have vowed to continue until their demands are met.

President Biya’s announcement of an additional 102 billion CFA francs allocated for teacher-related expenses in the 2024 budget reflects the weight of the issue. Striking a balance between teacher concerns and educational stability will be a key challenge for the government in the coming year.

Mimi Mefo Info