ASUP to shut down polytechnics over FG's failure to resolve demands

Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Kaduna Polytechnic Chapter, has concluded plans to shutdown polytechnics over alleged inability of the federal government to address and resolve seven pressing demands of the Union.

Addressing a press conference on Tuesday the Chairman, Kaduna chapter of ASUP, Abubakar J. Abdullahi said issues had negatively impacted the fabric of the educational sub-sector, hence the need to once again convey collective concerns to the government and the general public.

ASUP chairman listed the challenges to include, the swift release of the second tranche of the NEEDS Assessment Intervention fund, the immediate implementation of the approved 25/35% Salary Review across all public Polytechnics and the payment of the accrued arrears, the release and final resolution of the decades-long arrears of CONTISS-15 migration for lower cadre, and the release of outstanding promotion arrears.

Others, according to him include, the inadequate funding, and the lingering issue of unpaid allowances, the yet to be released Scheme of Service and Conditions of Service for the sector, and

the urgent need for a more robust policy framework that prioritizes education as a key pillar of national development.

He said, "As the Chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) Kaduna Polytechnic Chapter, I stand before you to address critical issues that have long negatively impacted the fabric of our educational sub-sector. We find ourselves at a pivotal juncture, and it is essential that we convey our collective concerns to the government and the general public.

"In October 6th 2024, we issued a 15-day ultimatum to the Federal Government, outlining pressing demands aimed at resolving the systemic challenges that hinder the progress of Polytechnics. These challenges include:-

"Regrettably, as we passed the deadline of this ultimatum, we are yet to see the necessary actions from the Federal Government to address these pressing demands. The silence and inaction have left us with no option but to consider the possibility of a total shutdown of our institutions, scheduled for December 2nd, 2024 should our concerns remain unaddressed.

"This decision is not made lightly. Our commitment to the students and their educational journey remains paramount. However, we must unequivocally affirm that the survival and quality of our educational system hinges upon the government's responsiveness to our needs. We believe that a strong education sector is vital for the future of our nation, and we cannot afford to compromise on these issues any longer.

"In the coming days, we urge the Federal Government to engage in meaningful dialogue with our Union and to take decisive steps toward resolving these challenges. Together, we can pave the way for a brighter future for our educators, the students they teach, and the Nigeria they serve".