The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Zone C, which represents educators from South-West and Kwara states, recently addressed critical issues affecting polytechnic education in Nigeria. During a press briefing at the Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic in Ijebu Igbo, ASUP’s Zone C Coordinator, Adekunle Masopa, condemned the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) for what he termed undue oversight and interference, particularly concerning student admissions into polytechnic institutions. He emphasized that the government’s complacency has persisted even after ASUP issued a 15-day strike ultimatum, expressing growing frustration over the lack of support and engagement from the authorities regarding crucial educational matters that could significantly impact technological advancement in the country.
Masopa’s statements further highlighted the deepening concerns of polytechnic staff, which include a breakdown in communication with the NBTE and a perceived failure to honor previous agreements. Specifically, discussions from a tripartite meeting held in July 2024 regarding a reviewed scheme of service remain unresolved, raising alarms over the NBTE’s actions that appear to undermine the authority of individual Academic Boards in matters such as admissions to Higher National Diploma programs. This usurpation of responsibilities has stirred discontent among educators, who view it as an infringement on their autonomy and professional governance.
In the wake of these developments, ASUP is gearing up for mobilization, with Masopa urging members to prepare for potential industrial action if the government fails to address their concerns by the deadline of the ultimatum. His call to action reflects the union’s broader strategy to hold the government accountable for overdue implementations, including salary adjustments and the clearance of outstanding promotion arrears. ASUP’s leadership is making it clear that the onus lies on the government to demonstrate commitment to fulfilling prior obligations to the polytechnic sector.
Moreover, Masopa insisted during the briefing that the government must remain proactive in acknowledging and resolving pending issues highlighted by the union. Specifically mentioned were demands for the implementation of a 25/35 percent consequential salary adjustment for state polytechnics starting from January 2023 and the corresponding payment of arrears for federal institutions. The union emphasizes that timely resolutions are necessary not only to ensure staff morale but to uphold the integrity of polytechnic education in Nigeria.
The meeting also served as a platform for solidarity among educators, with representatives from both federal and state-owned polytechnics in attendance. This collective gathering underscores the shared sentiments across different institutions and the urgency to resolve disputes that threaten the stability of the educational sector. The unity displayed among the educators indicates a broader recognition of the need for immediate action to avert possible disruptions that would further complicate the state of polytechnic education.
In conclusion, ASUP’s resolute stance highlights significant grievances concerning the management of polytechnic education in Nigeria and draws attention to the historical neglect faced by this vital educational segment. As the ultimatum deadline approaches, the union is prepared to take decisive action if the government does not act promptly to address their longstanding concerns. Ultimately, the situation calls for a renewed commitment from the government to uphold the standards of polytechnic education, which plays a crucial role in driving technological and economic development in the country.
