Kaduna State University Resumes Academic Activities Following ASUU Strike Suspension
Kaduna State University (KASU) has reopened its doors to students following the suspension of the strike action embarked upon by the institution’s chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). This positive development comes after a series of interventions by the Kaduna State Government, aimed at addressing the concerns raised by the union. The Vice Chancellor of KASU, Prof. Abdullahi Musa, announced the resumption of academic activities during a press conference, highlighting the government’s commitment to resolving the issues that led to the strike.
Governor Uba Sani has taken decisive measures to address the longstanding challenges faced by KASU staff. These measures demonstrate a deep understanding of the importance of education and the welfare of both academic and non-academic staff. Among the key interventions is the approval of a ₦50 million monthly standing order dedicated to staff welfare support. This substantial allocation is a testament to the government’s commitment to improving the working conditions and overall well-being of the university’s employees.
Furthermore, Governor Sani has released ₦146 million to cover outstanding salaries and students’ Industrial Work Experience Scheme (IWES) allowances. This financial injection aims to alleviate the immediate financial burdens faced by both staff and students, paving the way for a smoother return to academic normalcy. In addition to these financial interventions, the Governor has approved the retention of a certain percentage of internally generated revenue by the university. This move towards greater financial autonomy will empower KASU to manage its resources more effectively and address its specific needs.
To address the broader issues that led to the strike, Governor Sani established a high-level negotiation team. This committee, chaired by Deputy Governor Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, comprises senior government officials and aims to engage in constructive dialogue with all university unions. The establishment of this committee underscores the government’s commitment to finding lasting solutions to the challenges facing KASU. The Governor’s actions demonstrate his commitment to revitalizing the education sector and addressing the longstanding concerns of university staff, many of which predate his administration.
The Vice Chancellor praised Governor Sani’s swift and decisive actions, describing them as unprecedented in the university’s recent history. He commended the Governor’s sensitivity to the plight of students, the condition of education, and the welfare of university staff. The Vice Chancellor also appealed for support from parents, guardians, students, staff, and the general public, emphasizing the collective responsibility to restore KASU to its rightful place as a center of learning, progress, and hope.
The resumption of academic activities at KASU marks a significant step towards normalcy and stability within the institution. The government’s interventions, coupled with the ongoing dialogue between the negotiation team and the university unions, offer a promising path towards resolving the outstanding issues and creating a more conducive environment for learning and academic pursuits. While attempts to reach the Chairman of ASUU’s KASU branch, Dr. Peter Adamu, for comment were unsuccessful, the Vice Chancellor’s statements and the government’s actions signal a positive shift towards addressing the concerns that led to the strike. The university community and the wider public now look forward to the outcomes of the ongoing negotiations and the sustained implementation of the government’s commitments.
