The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has called on the federal government to end HND/BSc Dichotomy.
A communique by Itoro Ekanemesang, National Publicity Secretary of the union after its 18th National Delegates Conference in Jos, Plateau state commended the National Assembly for reintroducing the Bill to abolish the long-standing HND/BSc dichotomy.
Shammah Skpanja, National President of ASUP urged President Bola Tinubu to give accelerated assent to the HND/BSc Dichotomy Bill when passed.
The NDC underscored the need to end the discriminatory policy so as to promote fairness, strengthen national unity, and modernize Nigeria’s workforce.
Comrade Skpanja said polytechnic staff were being shortchanged, noting that even in Plateau State, the approved 25 and 35 percent wage awards had yet to be implemented.
The National President urged the Federal Government to adequately fund and revitalize the Polytechnic system for youth empowerment.
He maintained that the future of technical and vocational education depends on sustained investment. He therefore demands the immediate release of approved funds for the second round of the NEEDS Assessment Intervention and calls for transparent, equitable, and accountable disbursement to all eligible institutions.
Settlement of all CONTISS 15 migration arrears
On CONTISS 15 Migration Arrears, delegates unanimously demanded the settlement of all CONTISS 15 migration arrears owed to lower-cadre academic staff across institutions in the sector, the National Delegates Conference (NDC) condemns the prolonged delay, describing it as unjust and demoralizing while urging relevant authorities to treat this as a matter of priority.
The theme of the conference is “Migrating from Trade Unionism to Management: Harnessing the Benefits in Role Changes for the Next Phase of the Struggle’’.
On National Security and High Cost of Living, Skpanja expressed deep concern over the persistent insecurity plaguing the nation, and its effect on the safety of educational institution and the escalating cost of living, inflation, and worsening economic hardship affecting Nigerians.
The union demanded for the conclusion of the renegotiation of the ASUP/FGN Agreement of 2010.
The communique highlighted strong displeasure over previous administrative lapses resulting from the delayed reconstitution of Governing Councils, which stalled the appointment of principal officers.
The Union raised issues bothering on immediate approval and implementation of the revised Scheme of Service and Conditions of Service, Promotion Arrears and Salary Issues, Quality Assurance Outsourcing, Conversion of Polytechnics to Universities.Union Activity Disruptions
The 18th NDC elected a new set of leaders and therefore reconstituted the Council of National Officers (CNO) of the union to pilot her affairs in line with the constitution.
RN
