By Ibikunle Adenike Rofiat (SIWES Student), Olabisi Onabanjo University
The Federal Government has established several committees to address the concerns raised by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). This decision follows a meeting between ASUU representatives and government officials.
The newly formed committees are tasked with examining critical issues, including payment systems and salaries. They are scheduled to meet on September 11, 2024, to deliberate on these matters.
ASUU has threatened to initiate a strike if their demands are not met, which include improved working conditions, increased funding for universities, and a halt to the creation of new institutions.
In response, the government has expressed its commitment to resolving these issues. Education Minister Tahir Mamman noted that many of these problems date back to 1981, but emphasized that the current administration is dedicated to finding solutions.
Minister Mamman urged ASUU to remain open-minded and to consider the broader interests of all stakeholders, believing this approach could lead to a lasting resolution.
The government’s actions are seen as a positive step toward preventing a strike. ASUU’s demands have been longstanding, and finding a resolution would benefit both the union and the government.