TIRANA, October 11 – The head of the union of higher education employees, Aleksandër Kovaci, told a local TV on Tuesday that they have not had negotiations with the government so far, adding that they will continue the protest activity until the demands are met.
“On the 14th, on Friday, we have the next protest. Regarding the petition, it is not only a matter of salaries, but the salary increase is a prerequisite and a necessity to show the seriousness of the attitude towards the university and public higher education. We also request funding for scientific research,” Kovaci said.
Further he stressed that the 7 percent salary increase proposed by the government is unacceptable as it does not even index real inflation. Kovaci said that they are facing a lack of respect from the government.
“Salaries have been stagnant. Only professorships have remained in place. We are far behind Montenegro. There is a lack of respect,” he declared.
The head of the union revealed that there is psychological pressure on professors and people who want to participate in the protest. “It is unforgivable that the rectors in the districts want to stop participating in strikes. This is our right to protest,” Kovaci said.
The striking professors demand an increase of 30 percent of their salaries. /Argumentum.al
