Unam staff back at work

Unam staff back at work University of Namibia (Unam) employees returned to work yesterday after an agreement was reached between management and the trade unions representing striking workers.

According to the agreement a one-off cash payment equivalent to 5% of seven months' basic salary will be paid to all staff within the bargaining unit on 14 December.

Workers agreed to waive a salary increase for the 2018 financial year, according to a joint statement issued by Unam, the Namibia Public Workers Union (Napwu) and the Namibia National Teachers Union (Nantu).

It was agreed, however, that they would receive a 6% salary increase payable to all staff members in the bargaining unit, effective from 1 January next year.

The parties further agreed that the no-work, no-pay rule will be applied to the strike, with deductions to be calculated at the basic salary rate, and effected from December.

Furthermore, 50% of the strike days will be commuted to leave days, and in respect of the remaining strike days of 11 or more, money will be deducted in five equal monthly instalments.

For those employees who were on strike less than 11 days, money will be deducted in three equal monthly instalments.

The Unam strike lasted two weeks. Employees embarked on the nationwide action on 29 October, while demanding a 6% salary increase.

ELLANIE SMIT