The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Zone B, has announced that public polytechnics in Nigeria may face a strike starting on October 21 if their demands are not met.
This warning comes as the 15-day ultimatum previously issued by the union draws to a close.
During a press conference in Jos, the Coordinator of Zone B, Simji Lumpye, expressed his disappointment over the current state of public polytechnics, colleges of technology, and monotechnics in Nigeria. He stated, “Our Union’s National Executive Council met at its 111th NEC to review the current status of our engagements with proprietors of public polytechnics.” Lumpye highlighted the ongoing issues affecting the sector that were discussed during the last NEC meeting held in Abuja.
Some of the key issues raised include the lack of respect for the Federal Polytechnics Act, difficulties with the appointment of principal officers in educational institutions, and the failure to review the Scheme of Service for Polytechnics.
Additionally, Lumpye noted the non-release of the second tranche of the NEEDS Assessment intervention funds and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) interfering in the admission processes for Higher National Diploma students.
Lumpye further stated that, “The refusal of state governments to implement the 25/35% salary review for members and the non-release of arrears in Federal Polytechnics” have added to the grievances. He also pointed out the delayed payments of promotion arrears and the uncompleted renegotiation process of the ASUP/FGN 2010 agreement.
In response to these issues, the union made several demands, including a review of decisions that violate the Polytechnics Act and an urgent review of the suspended Scheme of Service for Polytechnics. They also called for the immediate release of the second tranche of the NEEDS Assessment intervention fund, an end to NBTE’s interference in student admissions, and the inclusion of a peculiar academic allowance in future budgets.
ASUP urged the proprietors of public polytechnics to address these concerns quickly to avoid disruptions. They warned that failure to comply would lead to “different forms of trade disputes” that could affect the operation of the institutions.
The union’s call comes amidst rising tensions in the education sector, with various unions demanding better conditions and treatment for their members. ASUP emphasized that ensuring a functional polytechnic education system is crucial for the development of the country.
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