Tutor professors at the National University of Distance Education (UNED) in Barcelona are protesting what they call an "unsustainable" pay situation. They claim a recent change increased their work by two hours per trimester but their pay rose by only €4. This effectively cuts their hourly remuneration.

Professors at UNED's associated centres in Barcelona now work 12 hours per trimester, up from 10. However, their trimester salary increased from €620 to just €624. This change reduces their hourly rate from €62 to €52. In practice, this means an average gross monthly income of approximately €156 for their teaching duties.

Professors Face Reduced Hourly Pay

The collective of 216 tutor professors has published a manifesto outlining their grievances. They perform essential functions, including academic guidance, exam correction, and continuous teaching support. A spokesperson for the collective stated, "This situation is incompatible with the dignification of the tutorial function, discourages dedication from teaching staff, and could negatively impact the quality of attention and the proper functioning of the UNED teaching model."

Metrópoli reported that the professors do not oppose the increase in hours itself. Instead, they object to the disproportionate salary adjustment. The 12-hour trimester structure is standard across UNED's national network. However, the Barcelona centres previously operated on a 10-hour model.

Demands for Fairer Conditions

The professors are calling for a real negotiation with the university. They seek an immediate upward revision of salaries. They argue that their pay should reflect the responsibilities they hold and the actual hours they dedicate, including preparation and correction time. The collective believes Barcelona's conditions are "among the worst in the State" compared to other UNED centres.

The National University of Distance Education (UNED) provides flexible higher education across Spain. Its associated centres, like those in Barcelona, are critical for local student support. The professors warn that current conditions could harm the quality of student support. This directly affects thousands of students who rely on UNED for their studies.

Impact on Public Education Quality

The main Barcelona centre is located in the Nou Barris district, a diverse area home to over 170,000 residents. Other associated centres serve students in the wider metropolitan area, including Santa Coloma, Canet de Mar, Sant Boi, and Cornellà. These areas rely on accessible education options, and the professors' working conditions directly influence the quality of this provision.

The professors highlight UNED's status as a 100% public university. Taxpayer money funds its operations. They argue that fair pay for educators is a responsible use of public funds and essential for maintaining educational standards. This protest represents a first measure of pressure, aiming to establish a framework for negotiation between the university and its Barcelona-based tutor professors. As of the publication of the Metrópoli article, UNED had not responded to requests for comment.

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Originally published by Metrópoli Abierta - Urban Life. Read original article.