The Kaduna State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed grave concerns over the deteriorating condition of tertiary education in the state, triggered by a warning strike embarked upon by staff unions across several key institutions. This industrial action, impacting institutions such as Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic, Kaduna State College of Education, Gidan Waya, Kaduna State College of Nursing, and Shehu Idris College of Health Technology, Makarfi, underscores the systemic challenges plaguing the education sector in Kaduna State. The PDP contends that the strike is a direct consequence of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) government’s alleged neglect of the education sector, despite substantial financial resources at its disposal. This neglect, according to the PDP, manifests in poor working conditions for staff and a persistent state of infrastructural decay within these institutions.
The PDP chairman, Edward Masha, characterized the strike as a stark warning to the state government, highlighting the potential for severe disruption to the academic calendar and the jeopardization of the future of thousands of students. He expressed deep concern that the ongoing strike could lead to delayed graduations and inflict mental distress on the affected students. Masha attributed these potential consequences to what he termed the administration’s lack of prioritization of human capital development, arguing that education, a fundamental right, requires a conducive learning environment for both educators and students. This environment, the PDP asserts, is currently absent due to the government’s alleged inaction.
The PDP’s statement further criticizes the APC-led government for its perceived failure to adequately address the concerns of the striking unions. The party contends that the government has not demonstrated a genuine commitment to resolving the issues through constructive dialogue and concrete action. Instead, the PDP alleges, the government has allowed the situation to deteriorate, leading to the current impasse and the resultant disruption of academic activities. This inaction, the PDP argues, further demonstrates the government’s alleged lack of concern for the well-being of students and the future of education in the state.
In response to the ongoing crisis, the PDP has called on Governor Uba Sani to take immediate action by engaging with the striking unions and addressing their demands through meaningful dialogue. The party emphasizes the importance of a collaborative approach to resolving the issues, urging the government to prioritize the needs of both the staff and the students. The PDP believes that a constructive dialogue is essential to finding a sustainable solution that will ensure the smooth functioning of the affected institutions and safeguard the future of tertiary education in the state.
Beyond the immediate call for dialogue, the PDP has also expressed its solidarity with the affected lecturers and students, acknowledging the hardships they are facing due to the strike. The party reiterated its commitment to advocating for responsible and responsive governance in Kaduna State, positioning itself as a champion for the rights and welfare of the citizens. This commitment, the PDP claims, extends to all sectors, including education, and underscores its dedication to holding the government accountable for its actions and policies.
Finally, the PDP has appealed to the residents of Kaduna State to exercise patience and maintain their faith in the party. The PDP expressed confidence in its ability to address the current challenges facing the state and pledged to work towards “rescuing” Kaduna from what it describes as inept administration through the ballot box. This statement serves as a call to action for the electorate, urging them to support the PDP in the upcoming elections as a means of bringing about positive change and addressing the perceived shortcomings of the current government. The PDP’s message is clear: it believes it has the capacity and the will to provide better governance and improve the lives of the citizens of Kaduna State.
