For 25 years, the academic debt owed to Cameroon’s higher education lecturers has remained unsettled, and for the last 9 months, their entitled allowances have not been paid. As dedicated educators and researchers, we have devoted our lives to shaping the minds of the future, yet we face financial insecurity due to overdue payments. This situation is not just about us as lecturers; it deeply impacts our students and researchers, creating a ripple effect throughout the academic community.

The lack of payment has placed a significant burden on our personal and professional lives. Without the financial resources needed to continue our work effectively, our ability to provide high-quality education and conduct necessary research is severely undercut. Our students, whom we mentor and support, are now facing diminished educational experiences, while young researchers lack the guidance and resources needed to excel in their fields.

The Syndicat National des Enseignants du Supérieur (SYNES) has been tirelessly advocating for the settlement of all outstanding academic debts and allowances, and for a timeframe for these payments that ensures all dues are cleared by the end of September 2026. However, if the government fails to address this critical issue expediently, we unfortunately see no other choice but to continue with an indefinite strike already launched. Such a step would disrupt the education of countless students and halt important research initiatives, which we strive to avoid at all costs.

According to the Cameroon Ministry of Finance, lecturers across the nation are owed substantial sums that, if paid, would greatly alleviate the financial strain not only on us but also on the entire education infrastructure. Similar situations in other countries have shown that government actions to resolve such debts can lead to improved educational outcomes and better societal growth.

We implore the Cameroonian government to prioritize the education sector by allocating the necessary funds and ensuring that all arrears are paid to us as committed educators, thereby fulfilling their obligations as outlined. By signing this petition, you are supporting our call for financial justice and fairness. You are advocating for an educational system that genuinely values and supports its educators as they work towards the betterment of society.

Let us ensure that the academic sector in Cameroon thrives instead of struggling under the weight of neglected obligations. Please sign this petition to demand immediate action and to safeguard the future of higher education in Cameroon.