By: Richard L. Smith
After a grueling 5-day strike, faculty members at Rutgers University have agreed to return to the classroom, The Honorable Governor Phil Murphy announced in a tweet.
The decision marks the end of the first strike in Rutgers University's history, which impacted all three of the university's campuses.
“After five days of intensive dialogue and negotiations in my office, I am pleased to share that Rutgers University and union bargaining committees have agreed. Looking forward to students across Rutgers campuses resuming their world-class educations on Monday”. -Governor Phil Murphy
The strike began on Monday, with faculty members demanding better pay and working conditions. The union representing the faculty members had been negotiating with the university for months, but talks broke down, leading to the strike.
The strike significantly impacted students, with canceled classes and exams postponed. Officials have not said when or of lost call time will be made up.
However, on Thursday, the union announced they had agreed on a ‘framework’ with the university, and the strike would be called off. The announcement was met with relief from both students and faculty members who were eager to get back to work.
Governor Murphy said while the details of the deal have not been finalized, the governor stated that it was a framework agreement that would benefit both faculty members and the university.
The strike has brought attention to the issue of fair pay and working conditions for faculty members nationwide.
According to the American Federation of Teachers, faculty members are often underpaid and overworked, with many being forced to work multiple jobs just to make ends meet.
As the university finalizes the agreement's details, students and faculty members are eager to return to work.
While the strike may have been disruptive, it has also sparked a meaningful conversation about the value of education and the people who make it possible.
IMAGE COURTESY: CBS News