UPR professors demand resumption of collective bargaining
- The San Juan Daily Star
- 11 hours ago
- 2 min read
By THE STAR STAFF
The Puerto Rican Association of University Professors (APPU by its initials in Spanish) has voiced strong opposition to the suspension of collective bargaining for University of Puerto Rico (UPR) faculty members, which has been ongoing since June.
In a show of urgency, the association has called on UPR President Zayira Jordán Conde to address their demands by Sept. 17.
“We have given her space and have been patient. [On Tuesday], we even delivered a letter in person outlining our demands as we had requested after negotiations stalled. However, the president did not meet with us,” APPU President María del Mar Rosa Rodríguez stated. “Our patience has run out. This is why we are calling Chapter Assemblies on all campuses, and if our demands are not addressed by Wednesday, September 17, we will take action.”
During a press conference, the APPU urged the immediate resumption of negotiations on the faculty contract. Emphasizing the importance of representation, they insisted that the managing committee include faculty members who understand the working conditions of teachers. Moreover, the APPU demanded the reinstatement of a direct communication agreement between the union and the teaching staff, which was unlawfully halted in April 2025, resulting in restricted communication between the union and its members.
Sheyla Méndez’s removal from the negotiating committee was another demand put forth by the APPU, citing that “her conduct has hindered good-faith dialogue and the signing of agreements.” Rosa Rodríguez noted that, as a human resources administrator, Méndez does not possess a comprehensive understanding of the teaching profession.
Additionally, the APPU members expressed concerns about the sudden and uncoordinated changes in chancellorships at various campuses, stating that these arbitrary actions undermine university democracy and reflect a centralized management style that excludes vital stakeholders in sustaining the institution’s academic life. APPU Vice President Jorge Lefevre reinforced that stance, emphasizing the importance of transparency and collaboration within the university community.