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The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has officially issued a 15-day ultimatum to the Federal Government, urging immediate action to address various longstanding issues affecting the polytechnic sector. The ultimatum, which commenced on October 7, 2024, will expire on October 25, 2024, potentially leading to industrial action if the government’s response is inadequate.
Key Issues Raised by ASUP
During a press conference, ASUP’s National President, Shammah Kpanja, highlighted several critical concerns that have prompted this ultimatum:
- Violations of the Federal Polytechnics Act: Allegations of breaches affecting the appointment of key administrative officers in both federal and state-owned polytechnics.
- Review of Schemes of Service: The lack of updates to the “Schemes of Service for Polytechnics” and conditions of service for staff.
- NEEDS Assessment Funds: The Federal Government’s failure to disburse the second tranche of NEEDS Assessment intervention funds aimed at enhancing educational infrastructure.
- Admission Process Interference: Concerns over interference by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) in the admission process for Higher National Diploma students.
- Omission of Academic Allowances: The exclusion of academic allowances in the national budget and delays in implementing salary increases for state-owned polytechnics.
Potential Actions
Kpanja warned that if these issues are not resolved within the given timeframe, ASUP will mobilize its members for various forms of industrial action, including strikes and protests. He stated, “We are committed to advocating for a functional polytechnic education system in Nigeria. If these issues are not addressed, we will consider a withdrawal of services by our members nationwide.”
Call to Action
ASUP has urged local chapters and zones to prepare for peaceful protests and media campaigns during this period. The union hopes that the Federal Government will utilize this two-week window to prevent a potential shutdown of polytechnic institutions across the country.
Conclusion
As the deadline approaches, all eyes will be on the Federal Government’s response to ASUP’s demands. The outcome will have significant implications for the future of polytechnic education in Nigeria and could potentially lead to widespread disruptions in academic activities if unresolved.
