The Senate has intensified efforts to resolve the ongoing industrial dispute between the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and the Federal Government, which has kept thousands of students out of classrooms across the country.
Senator Muktari Dandutse, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFUND, disclosed on Friday that the upper legislative chamber is actively mediating talks aimed at securing a sustainable settlement and reopening universities without further delay.
Speaking after a high-level meeting with ASUU leaders at the National Assembly, Dandutse said the Senate’s intervention is focused on creating a "conducive environment for continued dialogue" while safeguarding both academic stability and fair compensation for lecturers.
"Our goal is to push for immediate relief and long-term reforms that will prevent recurring strikes," he said.
The Senator outlined plans for the Senate to facilitate negotiations involving ASUU, the Ministry of Education, and the National Universities Commission (NUC).
He added that discussions would also address the University of Abuja land dispute in consultation with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
Senator Karimi Sunday, who also spoke on the matter, stated that while progress has been made in the talks, several welfare issues remain unresolved.
"Concerns over conference, group, and journal allowances must be properly reviewed to ensure they reach those entitled to them," he said, stressing the Senate’s commitment to balancing fiscal realities with lecturers' welfare.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole weighed in on the broader economic challenges affecting both students and academic staff.
"If a book costs N100 and inflation leaves a student with N75, education becomes inaccessible. Policy adjustments must support both learning and teaching.
"A country that abandons its teachers cannot develop its technology," Oshiomhole said.
ASUU President, Prof Chris Piwuna, confirmed that negotiations with the Federal Government are ongoing but said parts of the latest offer remain unacceptable.
"The government’s proposal falls outside the Nimi Briggs benchmark that was earlier agreed upon. That’s why it remains an issue for us," he said.
Piwuna also stressed that any decision to suspend industrial action would be made collectively by ASUU members.
"We always pursue dialogue first. Unfortunately, it is only when we withdraw our services that the government becomes responsive," he said, dismissing claims that strikes are merely a bargaining tactic.
Comments
Post a Comment