University staff protest against low humanities and social science pay

Protests against low salaries in the humanities and social science sector at universities are taking place in eight cities across Czechia, including the capital, on the occasion of Teachers' Day this Tuesday, Czech Television reports. They want more money from the budget for universities as well as a fairer share of the division of funds into salaries across academic departments. The demonstration is also being supported by the University Trade Union.

Education Minister Vladimír Balaš told journalists on Tuesday that while he understands the protestors’ feelings, he thinks that the problem cannot be solved simply by adding more money from the budget and that universities themselves need to rationalise their operations. He said that he expects to receive a proposal on systemic and strategic changes from universities by April 21.

The issue is also to be discussed between Mr Balaš and Prime Minister Petr Fiala this Tuesday.