Academic activities at Suriname’s Anton de Kom University (AdeKUS) have returned to normal following the suspension of industrial action by teaching staff. The decision to end the work stoppage was reached during an emergency general assembly convened by the University’s Scientific Staff Union (VWPU), effectively restoring all educational instruction and examination processes.
The resolution comes after high-level negotiations between union leadership and President Jennifer Simons on December 17. This meeting was prompted by a formal communication dispatched by VWPU to the presidential office on December 8. The dialogue included the presence of Suriname’s Minister of Education, Science and Culture alongside other senior government officials.
During the critical discussions, participants emphasized the urgent necessity for implementing structural solutions to address longstanding concerns affecting academic staff. A concrete timeline has been established, setting a firm deadline of January 2026 for the presentation of comprehensive resolutions. Both parties have committed to this schedule, with expectations that substantive measures will be finalized within the stipulated timeframe.
VWPU leadership has expressed cautious optimism regarding the government’s commitment to fulfilling pledged actions within the agreed period. The union’s chairman, Aroenprekash Badal, indicated that while the temporary cessation of actions demonstrates good faith, the union remains prepared to reassess their position should implementation falter.