ASUP: FG does not prioritise polytechnic education

ASUP: FG does not prioritise polytechnic education

The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has criticized the Federal Government for neglecting challenges in the polytechnic education sector, accusing it of a lacklustre approach to resolving pressing issues.

The union, which began a two-week strike on December 2, has halted academic activities nationwide. The strike follows the expiration of a 15-day ultimatum issued by ASUP’s National Executive Council.

Speaking at Yaba College of Technology on Friday, Masopa Nurudeen, the coordinator of ASUP’s Zone C, highlighted the Federal Government’s lack of urgency in addressing the union’s grievances.

He expressed dismay over the selection processes for rectors in Federal Polytechnic Nekede and Federal Polytechnic Wannune, describing them as violations of the Federal Polytechnics Act of 2019.

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“The Governing Council of Federal Polytechnic, Nekede, displayed impunity in its selection process for a new Rector. Similarly, due process was not observed when appointing a Rector at Federal Polytechnic Wannune,” Nurudeen stated.

He also accused the government of discriminatory practices, citing its prompt intervention in the Vice-Chancellor appointment crisis at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, while ignoring the Nekede saga.

“The government responded swiftly to the UNIZIK issue but has ignored ours. This conduct clearly shows discrimination against the polytechnic education sector,” he added.

Nurudeen also lamented the non-disbursement of NEEDS Assessment funds to polytechnics in 2023, a delay that persists as the year ends.

The ASUP coordinator hinted that the strike might extend into 2024 if the Federal Government fails to meet their demands.

“If nothing tangible is done after the two-week strike, our NEC will reconvene and decide on further action. We may resume the strike next year if necessary,” Nurudeen warned.

ASUP reiterated its commitment to advocating for the welfare of polytechnic staff and the overall improvement of the polytechnic education system.

ASUP: FG does not prioritise polytechnic education