The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has vowed to close all polytechnics nationwide starting December 2, 2024, if the Federal Government fails to address its lingering demands.
Comrade Abubakar J. Abdullahi, Chairman of ASUP’s Kaduna Polytechnic Chapter, announced the planned industrial action during a press briefing on Tuesday in Kaduna. He criticized the government for failing to act on critical issues affecting polytechnic education, despite a 15-day ultimatum issued on October 6, 2024.
ASUP’s demands include:
- Release of the second tranche of the NEEDS Assessment Intervention Fund.
- Immediate implementation of the 25/35% salary review for public polytechnic staff.
- Payment of accrued arrears owed to staff.
“Regrettably, as we passed the deadline of this ultimatum, we are yet to see the necessary actions from the Federal Government to address these pressing demands. The silence and inaction have left us with no option but to consider the possibility of a total shutdown of our institutions on December 2nd, 2024, should our concerns remain unaddressed,” Abdullahi warned.
The union leader underscored the importance of a robust polytechnic education system, urging the government to prioritize dialogue and solutions. “We believe a strong education sector is vital for the future of the nation, and quality education should not be compromised,” he stated.
A nationwide shutdown could disrupt academic activities for students and staff across Nigeria, adding pressure on the government to resolve the impasse promptly.
