Teachers in Zimbabwe have issued a stern 14-day ultimatum to the government, demanding a comprehensive review of their salaries. This action threatens to disrupt the reopening of schools scheduled for next month if significant progress is not made on their demands. Educators are the latest group within the civil service to challenge the government over inadequate wages, following recent protests by nurses, highlighting a growing wave of discontent despite the government's announcement of salary increases in April, which civil servants have largely dismissed as insufficient.

The Educators' Union of Zimbabwe (EUZ) formally communicated its strong dissatisfaction with the current salary review in a letter addressed to the Public Service Commission. EUZ Secretary General Tapedza Zhou articulated the core issues, stating that the uniform base of US$320 across all grades has led to clear wage compression. Furthermore, Zhou highlighted the instability of the ZiG component of their salaries, which significantly erodes real income, and pointed out that the current salary structure fails to keep pace with the cost of living, which is predominantly indexed in USD. Members have concluded that there has been no meaningful salary increment in real terms.

Salaries have become a major point of contention within the civil service, with the government maintaining its stance on the increments introduced in April. This ongoing standoff now poses a direct threat to the reopening of schools for the second term, with several unions already advocating for industrial action. EUZ spokesperson Herzel Mushayabasa further elaborated on the union's grievances, particularly criticizing the grading system recently implemented by the government.

The union's demands are clear and comprehensive. They call for a significant review of the salary structure, including an increased and differentiated USD component, and the full payment of the US$80 teaching allowance exclusively in USD. Additionally, the EUZ demands an immediate review and suspension of the current grading system, pending meaningful engagement with stakeholders, and the reinstatement of critical allowances such as housing, transport, and rural incentives. Mushayabasa confirmed that the union has provided the employer with a 14-day window to respond to these critical concerns. Should there be no meaningful engagement or resolution within this specified period, EUZ members have indicated their readiness to pursue further action, including incapacitation and legal recourse. While committed to constructive dialogue, the EUZ emphasizes the urgent necessity of safeguarding the dignity, welfare, and professional standing of teachers.