The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) announced on Monday the suspension of its planned strike regarding the newly released scheme of service for polytechnics.
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ASUP’s decision followed engagements with the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman. The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) had unveiled new service schemes on June 19, 2024, approved by the Federal Government for Nigerian Polytechnics, effective from June 7, 2024.
However, ASUP opposed the new schemes, claiming they lacked inclusive input from key stakeholders, including their union and others in the polytechnic sector.
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The union issued a 15-day ultimatum to the Federal Government starting from July 8, 2024, to halt the implementation of the new service schemes or face various forms of industrial action.
In a statement issued after its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, ASUP stated that the 15-day ultimatum was intended to give the government sufficient time to address their grievances.
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“Within the 15-day period, our union’s leadership was invited to a tripartite meeting with the NBTE and the Federal Ministry of Education on July 19, where it was agreed that the implementation of the disputed document be suspended and a review process initiated in line with our demands,” the statement read.
The NBTE promptly suspended the document through a circular sent to Chairmen, Governing Councils, Rectors, and Provosts on the same day.
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Following this, ASUP’s NEC held an emergency meeting on July 22 to reassess their position.
“The NEC resolved to suspend the scheduled industrial action, recognizing that our demands have been substantially met. We appreciate our members’ steadfastness in the face of unwarranted provocation, as well as the interventions and inputs from various stakeholders, including Rectors of Polytechnics, sister staff unions, and the National Association of Polytechnic Students,” ASUP stated.
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The union plans to focus on the review process to ensure the final document reflects the aspirations of the polytechnic sector.
