THE University of Namibia and the Namibia Public Workers Union will decide on the rules for an impending industrial action today.

Unam spokesperson John Haufiku said 61% of the university's staff voted in favour of engaging in a strike last Friday to demand a 6% salary increase, backdated to January this year.

Napwu general secretary Petrus Nevonga could not be reached for comment on the issue yesterday.

Haufiku said management and staff could not agree on the increase as Unam management offered nothing, while the workers were adamant on the 6% raise.

"Such a stance is not a blatant disregard of the socio-economic difficulties that may affect staff. It is due to a limited budget," Haufiku said on the Unam management's position.

In 2008, Unam staff also voted to go on strike, but backed down at the eleventh hour.

Unam employees were seeking a 12% salary increase at the time, backdated to the previous year, but the university offered them nothing.