In Chad, a teachers' strike that began in mid-February 2026 has significantly disrupted public schools in both N'Djamena and the provinces. The strikers are demanding the implementation of a specific decree regarding their status and an increase in allowances. On February 20, the government announced that the days not worked by the striking teachers from the SET union in N'Djamena would not be compensated, leading to further discontent among the educators who assert that they have not been paid for 15 days of work either. This situation highlights the growing tensions between the government and education sector workers during a time of economic crisis.

Teachers involved in the strike, such as Paul Bayan, who serves as a communication officer for the SET provincial section, express their frustration with the government's tactics. Bayan stated that the teachers were informed that only non-working days would be deducted from their salaries, yet they have not received any payment at all this month. This claim of non-payment is an attempt to shed light on what they perceive as deliberate intimidation by the government to suppress their demands for better working conditions and fair compensation.

The strike has significant implications for the educational landscape in Chad, particularly as it affects the future schooling of children amid an already struggling system. The teachers' demands for better recognition and support from the government reflect broader issues of labor rights in the country, and the outcome of this strike may serve as a pivotal moment that influences future negotiations between education workers and the government. As tensions escalate, the response from both the educators and the authorities will be critical in determining the path forward for education in Chad.