Representatives of the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) met on Wednesday to address the looming threat of a strike by university lecturers. Another meeting is scheduled for September 6.
Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, made the announcement in Abuja, emphasising that the government is working closely with ASUU to devise solutions to the ongoing challenges. He also announced the creation of a new executive leadership for the pro-chancellors, tasked with addressing the concerns of the lecturers.
Additionally, a joint committee has been formed, including members from ASUU, the Federal Ministry of Education, the National Universities Commission (NUC), and the Ministry of Labour. This committee aims to fast-track the resolution of unresolved issues, particularly those involving presidential directives.
The minister stated that the committee would reconvene next week to assess the progress and feedback on the implementation of the agreed measures.
ASUU has been asked to submit detailed information on unpaid salaries for staff on sabbatical, part-time, and adjunct appointments affected by the implementation of the IPPIS, as well as outstanding third-party deductions. This information will be sent to the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation for further action.
University lecturers recently threatened to strike due to the Federal Government’s alleged failure to meet their demands.
The main focus of the meeting, originally set for Monday but postponed, was to avert another nationwide strike and improve security across universities. Mamman reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to enhancing security within the education sector, assuring that steps would be taken to keep students on campus.