The Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) signed new salary agreements with the Namibia Public Workers Union (NAPWU) and the Teachers Union of Namibia (TUN) concluding negotiations for the 2024/2025 financial year. According to the statement issued by public relations officer at NUST, Cindy van Wyk, the agreements cover both academic and administrative staff who fall under the bargaining unit. 

“According to the deal, administrative staff in Job Grades 7 to 11 will receive a 5% salary increase, while those in Job Grades 12 to 16 will get a 6% increase. These adjustments apply to all permanently employed staff and those on full-time contracts of one year or longer,” she said. For academic staff, NUST approved a 5% salary increase across the board. The university will also extend its 80% medical aid contribution to all employees on Total Cost to Company packages, including those with one-year full-time contracts. The salary increases will be backdated to 1 January 2025 and reflected in the December 2025 payroll. Acting Vice-Chancellor Andrew Niikondo praised the negotiating committees for their commitment, collaboration, and the mutual respect that guided the successful conclusion of the negotiations. 

The agreement comes at a time where Namibia continues to invest in education, including the government’s plans toward free tertiary education. This policy aims to make higher education more accessible to all Namibians but has also created financial pressure on universities to balance staff welfare with limited budgets. 

-pmukokobi@nepc.com.na