The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has threatened to embark on a nationwide strike if the Federal Government fails to address lingering issues affecting polytechnic education and the welfare of workers.
In a statement issued after its emergency meeting, the union expressed frustration over what it described as government’s insensitivity to the plight of polytechnic staff. The unresolved demands include payment of salary arrears, implementation of the new salary structure, improved funding for polytechnics, and the release of withheld allowances.
ASUP President, Anderson Ezeibe, lamented that despite several meetings and promises made by government officials, none of the agreements have been fully implemented. He noted that the delay has worsened the living conditions of staff and crippled the academic environment across many polytechnics in the country.
The union further accused the Federal Government of paying lip service to the development of technical education, warning that any further neglect would force them to shut down polytechnics nationwide.
“We have exercised patience long enough, but our members are now at a breaking point. If government does not take urgent steps to meet our demands, we will have no choice but to proceed on strike,” Ezeibe warned.
The looming strike, if actualized, could disrupt academic calendars in polytechnics across the country, leaving thousands of students stranded. Stakeholders are calling for urgent dialogue to avert another industrial action in the education sector.
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