On Friday, May 1, 2026, the pedagogical campus of the Université Amadou Mahtar Mbow (UAM) hosted celebrations for International Workers’ Day. The event was organized by the UAM section of the Syndicat autonome des travailleurs des universités et centres universitaires (SATUC-UAM), blending collective mobilization with a critical review of union progress.
A Display of Unity and Mobilization
Despite the public holiday, a significant number of Personnel administratif, technique et de service (PATS) participated in the events. The day began with a march from the campus to the Courtyard by Marriott hotel.
The procession was held under the union banner, with deans leading the cortège to signal a unified front among the university’s staff.
Reviewing Progress and Pending Demands
Following the march, the gathering moved to the Rectorat’s Annexe 1 room for a session of exchanges and debates. Abdoul Baldé, the Secretary General of SATUC-UAM, provided a detailed overview of the union’s current standing.
Baldé stated that the union presented all accomplished achievements although simultaneously highlighting the expectations and matters that still need to be resolved.
The National Struggle for Housing Allowances
A central point of contention remains the national issue of housing allowances. A seminar involving all stakeholders has already taken place, and a formal report was submitted to the minister of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation.
University rectors have unanimously recognized the legitimacy of this demand. However, they have pointed to insufficient budget allocations as the reason why these allowances have not yet been implemented.
Future Outlook
Given the current deadlock, the union may continue to push for increased budget allocations from the ministry to resolve the housing allowance issue. Further mobilization among PATS colleagues could be a possible next step to maintain pressure on the administration.
Abdoul Baldé praised the militants for their high level of engagement, noting that they set aside personal concerns to show solidarity. He congratulated the staff for an “élan de solidarité” that serves as a strong signal to the university leadership.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who organized the International Workers’ Day event at UAM?
The celebration was organized by the UAM section of the Syndicat autonome des travailleurs des universités et centres universitaires (SATUC-UAM).
What is the primary national grievance discussed during the event?
The primary issue is the housing allowance (indemnité de logement), which has been the subject of a stakeholder seminar and a report sent to the minister of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation.
Why have the housing allowances not been implemented despite being deemed legitimate?
University rectors have stated that the absence of implementation is due to insufficient current budget allocations.
Do you believe that acknowledging the legitimacy of a demand is sufficient if the budget to fulfill This proves not provided?
