UWI lecturers, senior admin staff set Jan 5 to start industrial action over salary issues

January 5 is the date set for academic and senior administrative staff at The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona to start withholding grades as part of industrial action if their demands for interim pay increases are not granted.

The West Indies Group of University Teachers (WIGUT) Jamaica first issued the threat to the university administration and the Government on November 30, following an emergency meeting of members.  

The union, which represents approximately 900 academics, senior administrative and professional staff, escalated its concerns by issuing the January 5 date in a newsletter dated December 22, with the headline 'action time'. 

WIGUT Jamaica president, Professor Paul Brown, said talks have been held with the university's management but there have been no formal discussions with the ministries of education and finance. 

"A lot depends on what happens now, clearly, with the line ministries," he told The Gleaner on Tuesday. 

In the newsletter, the union said there has been "no meaningful offer on an interim financial relief/ cost-of-living package" while a compensation review takes place.

The workers want an interim 25 per cent increase in salary and associated allowances, payable no later than February 29. 

"We, the West Indies Group of University Teachers (Jamaica) ask you, our members, to act. The actions you take are to express to the Government of Jamaica and The University of the West Indies our total disgust at the situation," the document said. 

It said members "shall engage in all actions relevant to their job category".

The six protest actions are withholding of grades; not attending meetings; not uploading course materials; not holding academic advising meetings; not providing systems support unless an emergency situation arises; and not providing learning support.

Teaching is scheduled to resume for the second semester on January 22, but students expect to receive their grades much earlier to register for courses. 

"Our main paymaster, the Government of Jamaica, is our target. Sadly, protest action is the only way now to get their attention," the newsletter said.

"We should exercise discretion and flexibility where required. We should, at all costs, avoid any long-term harm to those whom we serve."

The UWI and the finance ministry are reportedly finalising the engagement of an international consulting firm to carry out the compensation review for employees at the institution.

The report is anticipated in May 2024.

However, WIGUT-represented staff are concerned that it will be several months after that before any negotiated agreement.

Meanwhile, UWI Mona Registrar Dr Donovan Stanberry said he could not say at this time whether the payment demand will be met. 

"We are aware of the notice issued by WIGUT and the management of The UWI Mona is fully engaged with the union to find a resolution to the issue," he told The Gleaner today, adding that talks are also taking place with the Government.

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