Teachers across Algeria launched a nationwide strike Wednesday, protesting low wages and worsening working conditions. The walkout follows last month’s student demonstrations, marking a rare wave of public dissent in the country.
As the strike began, students were left outside shuttered classrooms, wandering aimlessly as teachers observed the first day of a planned two-day protest.
Educators say the strike is significant amid an ongoing crackdown on rights, including restrictions on the press, opposition parties, and women’s freedoms. “The right to strike is enshrined in the constitution,” said veteran trade unionist Hafidha Amiréche.
Despite its vast natural gas wealth, Algeria has seen growing frustration with its education system. The country spends more on education than most of its neighbors—second only to military expenditures—but teachers argue their salaries remain inadequate.
Many young, educated Algerians are increasingly seeking opportunities abroad, with European visa applications rising. Teachers say low wages are fueling emigration, leaving the profession struggling to retain skilled educators.
President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has implemented wage increases during his tenure, including a 37% salary boost for public sector workers like teachers. However, unions argue that starting salaries remain barely above minimum wage or unemployment stipends, urging further pay hikes.
Last month, students staged protests both in schools and on social media, particularly TikTok, voicing frustrations over outdated curricula and the high cost of private tutoring.
“We’re Generation Z, and the AI revolution is already part of our daily lives,” said Lilya Saoudi, a second-year high school student, emphasizing the need for modernized education.
In response, Algeria’s newly appointed Education Minister Mohamed Seghir Sadaoui has pledged reforms following a government audit that highlighted systemic “dysfunctions” in the country’s school system.
