Saturday, September 28, 2024

More than 30 PhD holders depart from Bauchi State Owned University, ASUU States Why

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Bauchi Zone, has reported that over 30 PhD holders have departed from the state-owned Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU) due to worsening working conditions. During a press conference on Friday, ASUU’s zonal coordinator, Namo Timothy, stated that the lack of an employee exit policy has compelled lecturers to pursue opportunities elsewhere. He indicated that this situation has placed the institution on the brink of collapse. The official noted that the university lacks a pension or death benefit scheme, which is typically found in the public service framework of the country. He emphasized that without such schemes and in light of deteriorating working conditions, lecturers are increasingly anxious about their future at the university as they approach retirement age. The union also condemned the university administration for failing to disburse over N650 million in accumulated entitlements, which include earned academic allowances and honorariums for internal examiners. “Despite generating substantial revenue from postgraduate programs, our members have not received compensation for their contributions,” Mr. Timothy remarked. He further highlighted other critical issues, such as a significant increase in student fees and a lack of commitment to staff training and development. The union accused the university administration of neglecting staff welfare, particularly in light of recent fee hikes exceeding 100 percent for regular and undergraduate programs. “The university asserts that there are insufficient funds to compensate our members, yet it continues to impose higher fees on students,” Mr. Timothy added. Additionally, the union expressed concern that the pro-chancellor has held the position since the university's inception and called for compliance with established regulations regarding appointments. This situation has fostered an environment characterized by a lack of accountability and progressive policies. In response to these challenges, ASUU is calling upon the State government and relevant stakeholders to urgently prioritize the welfare of staff. This includes the establishment of a comprehensive exit policy and the disbursement of long-overdue allowances. The ASUU official cautioned that without addressing these concerns, the prospect of maintaining industrial harmony within the university remains uncertain. Furthermore, the union has urged the state government to declare a state of emergency within the university to effectively tackle these issues and safeguard the future of both the academic staff and the institution. On Friday, attempts by reporters to contact Bauchi State Commissioner of Education, Jamila Dahiru, were unsuccessful, as the known phone number did not connect, according to sources.

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