By: Mamajah Jalloh
The Union of Academic Staff Associations (UASA) on Friday, 6 November 2026, announced the immediate suspension of its industrial action following mediation by the Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh.
In a press release, UASA expressed profound gratitude to the Vice President and all stakeholders for their commitment and concerted efforts towards finding a lasting and amicable resolution to the impasse between the union and the Government.
According to the release, the Vice President appealed to UASA to suspend its industrial action and return to work while awaiting the signed written agreement from the Ministry of Finance. In response, the union convened plenary meetings across its constituent associations to deliberate on the appeal.
Following the deliberations, the general membership resolved to suspend the ongoing strike with immediate effect, citing its profound respect for the Vice President and his mediation efforts.
UASA stated that it looks forward to a joint meeting involving the Vice President, the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE), during which the parties are expected to formally sign a written agreement.
The union emphasised that the agreement must clearly specify the approved percentage salary increase and the timelines for its implementation.
Meanwhile, UASA called on the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) to expedite the approval process for the Harmonized Conditions of Service and provide the union with copies of the approved document.
The union also urged the Ministry of Finance to involve its representatives in the computation of figures relating to the agreed salary increase to ensure transparency, accuracy and mutual understanding among all parties.
UASA reaffirmed its commitment to constructive engagement and a peaceful resolution of the dispute in the best interests of the higher education sector, students and the nation at large.