The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has announced a nationwide strike, set to commence on Monday, December 2, 2024.
The decision was made during the National Executive Council meeting in Abuja, with ASUP accusing the Federal Government of failing to address critical issues affecting the sector.
In a statement, ASUP President Comrade Kpanja Shammah outlined the key reasons for the strike:
- Impunity and Disrespect for Provisions: ASUP cited ongoing violations of the Federal Polytechnics Act, various state laws, and governance instruments, particularly regarding the appointment of principal officers in polytechnics. The union pointed to irregularities in the appointment process of rectors at the Federal Polytechnic Nekede and Federal Polytechnic Wannune as examples.
- Unresolved Schemes of Service: The union expressed dissatisfaction with the non-review and suspension of the Schemes of Service for Polytechnics.
- Intrusion of NBTE: The union criticized the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) for interfering in the admission processes of Higher National Diploma students.
- Salary and Allowances: ASUP condemned the refusal of several state polytechnics to implement the 35/25% salary review and the non-release of salary arrears in federal polytechnics. Additionally, the union raised concerns about the failure to include members’ academic allowances in the post-IPPIS era.
Following a review of these issues, ASUP resolved to withdraw services for an initial two-week strike beginning December 2, 2024. The union warned that if the government does not address the listed demands, the strike could escalate into an indefinite closure of polytechnic institutions.
ASUP appealed for public understanding and support, emphasizing the need for a healthy teaching and learning environment in Nigeria’s polytechnic system.
CREDIT: Allschoolabs, Myschool.ng
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