Kassala teachers declare strike, delay school year over pay dispute
June 1, Kassala — The Sudanese Teachers’ Committee in Kassala State announced a comprehensive strike across all localities starting June 7, protesting low wages and years of accumulated financial entitlements.
The decision to strike has forced a delay in the start of the new academic year, which will now be postponed until June 7, with the strike remaining in effect until their demands are fully met.
This escalation follows just one day after a similar strike in Khartoum State, which saw hundreds of teachers across approximately 100 schools down tools over delayed salaries and deteriorating living conditions.
Speaking to Sudan Tribune, Sayed Timba, the head of the Teachers’ Committee in Kassala State, stated that the decision was a direct response to the ongoing injustices faced by educators. He emphasized that union action relies heavily on the unity and cohesion of the workforce.
Timba highlighted that the living conditions for teachers have reached “catastrophic” levels due to chronic salary delays and the severe erosion of purchasing power caused by inflation and soaring living costs. He noted that the highest-paid educators (First Degree) receive no more than 156,000 Sudanese pounds—approximately $40—a month, an amount that fails to cover basic needs or daily transportation costs.
Furthermore, Timba revealed that teachers have been deprived of several financial entitlements over the past four years, including holiday bonuses, cash allowances, and clothing allowances. Additionally, salary adjustments designated for the years 2025 and 2026 have yet to be implemented.
In a formal statement, the Teachers’ Committee reiterated that the strike was triggered by worsening economic conditions and the government’s continued failure to pay financial arrears, including outstanding entitlements from 2023 and salary differentials.
The committee affirmed that the strike will be strictly enforced across all localities in the state from June 7, warning of further escalatory measures if authorities fail to respond. It called on all teachers to commit to the decision and maintain solidarity, stressing that the issue fundamentally concerns their professional rights and a dignified livelihood.