Sierra Leone Labour Congress Urges Resolution to Teachers' Strike Amidst Government Negotiations

Sierra Leone Labour Congress Urges Resolution to Teachers' Strike Amidst Government Negotiations

The Sierra Leone Labour Congress (SLLC) has voiced its profound concern regarding the ongoing strike action initiated today by one of its affiliates, the Sierra Leone Teachers Union (SLTU). The strike, which began on September 8, 2025, stems from issues raised with the Government of Sierra Leone as far back as November 2024.

The SLLC acknowledged that engagements between the government and the SLTU have taken place in an attempt to resolve the outstanding issues and halt the strike. 

However, the Congress expressed disappointment, stating that the government "has not been able to address the mandatory issues raised by the Sierra Leone Teachers Union at a time like this when free quality education is government’s flagship programme."

Consequently, the Sierra Leone Labour Congress has urged the government to address the SLTU's concerns to facilitate "an immediate resumption of school to continue promoting education for our children." 

The Congress also extended its solidarity to the SLTU, indicating that it is considering "other options in working with both government and the SLTU to address the issues raised by the teachers."

Reports indicate that there was continuous communication between the government and the SLTU over the weekend concerning the strike. 

The government had conveyed its intention to engage with the SLTU and work towards resolving the situation. However, the SLTU responded by confirming the engagement but refusing to call off the strike without determinable and a disbursement towards the school subsidy and backlogged fees.