By Rajni Ratti
The ongoing part-time faculty strike at Saint Mary’s University is a moment
of deep reflection for all of us in academia. Universities are not merely
institutions of instruction; they are the nurseries of creativity, innovation, and
leadership; places where future entrepreneurs, policymakers, doctors, and
scientists take root. When such spaces become overshadowed by disputes
over fair wages, the true mission of education suffers.
Faculty are the heart of any university. They ignite curiosity, cultivate critical
thinking, and inspire students to challenge convention. Yet, when educators
must fight for wages that allow them to live with dignity, it sends a troubling
message – not only to faculty but to students as well. If those who dedicate
their lives to teaching and mentorship are undervalued, what lesson
are we imparting to the next generation? That passion and integrity are
negotiable? That knowledge can thrive under constant financial strain?
A university’s strength is not in its infrastructure but in its people – its
teachers and students. When faculty are supported, respected, and fairly
compensated, they can focus fully on what truly matters: awakening
creativity, encouraging independent thought, and shaping confident,
compassionate graduates.
Resolving this situation is not just about ending a strike — it’s about
reaffirming our shared belief that education should be built on respect,
not compromise.