Muhammad Garba
The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Zone A, has expressed its support and preparedness to join a nationwide strike if it becomes necessary after the expiration of a two-week ultimatum given to the Federal Government by the Union’s national body
This was contained in a statement signed and issued to press men by Dr Abdulazeeze Ibrahim Badaru, Zonal Coordinator, ASUP Zone A.
He said it is quite unfortunate with the kind of lackadaisical attitude shown by the Federal Government State and other proprietors of polytechnic in resolving crucial of the survival and progress of the schools across the country.
“The prevailing challenges confronting public polytechnics including the continued neglect of critical issues that impact the functionality of polytechnic education and the well-being of our members are deep sources of concern.
“The Non-review of the suspended 2023 Scheme of Service for Polytechnics, disregard for the 25/35% Salary Review in State-Owned Polytechnics, owed CONTISS 15 migration arrears for lower cadre staff, despite several appeals, the long-standing issue of arrears for members in the lower cadre remains unresolved.
“Disregard for the 25/35% salary review in state-owned polytechnics, many state governments in the zone comprising of states in the northwest and Niger state have failed to implement the agreed salary review, leaving our members with stagnant wages despite the rising cost of living.
“Intrusion by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) in academic of our members in federal polytechnics are yet to receive promotion arrears, while in state polytechnics, promotions are not being implemented at all, non-release of the Second Tranche of NEEDS assessment intervention funds post-IPPIS era poses significant concerns for the future of polytechnic education funding.
The statement added that, despite previous agreements and a tripartite meeting held in July 2024, the Executive Secretary of NBTE, Professor Idris Bugaje is yet to show commitment to the resolution of the tripartite meeting as no step has been taken to commence the review as mandated by the meeting.
“It is our firm belief that these demands are not just in the interest of our members but also in the broader interest of ensuring a functional and competitive polytechnic education system in Nigeria and the world over.”
In line with our mission to safeguard the integrity of polytechnic education, the National Executive Council has issued a 15-day ultimatum to the proprietors of polytechnics starting from 7 October 2024.
Failure to meet the demands of the Union within the stipulated period will result in various forms of industrial actions, including but not limited to the withdrawal of services by our members,” Comrade Abdulaziz declared
