From Jude Owuamanam Jos
The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has withdrawn its 15-day ultimatum issued to the Federal Government. The ultimatum concerned the implementation of a recently released circular on the scheme of service and the dichotomy between university degrees and Higher National Diplomas (HNDs).
Comrade Simji Innocent Lumpye, Zonal Coordinator Zone B, explained that the withdrawal followed the Federal Government’s decision to suspend the circular’s implementation and further scrutinise it.
In a statement, Lumpye said that, following the ultimatum, the government promptly convened a tripartite meeting with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and ASUP. At the meeting, significant decisions were reached.
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These decisions included:
- The suspension of the released scheme of service’s implementation.
- Convening a meeting of all stakeholders to further scrutinise the document, make necessary adjustments, and correct any issues.
- The Executive Secretary of NBTE issuing a circular directing the suspension of the scheme of service’s implementation. This circular is to be addressed to all chairmen of governing councils, rectors, and provosts of schools.
The statement continued, “The Union, at its emergency National Executive Council meeting of 22nd July, resolved, among other things, to put on hold its earlier resolution to embark on industrial action after the expiration of its ultimatum.
“It is on this premise that the Zone is issuing this press statement as directed by the Council of National Officers.
“The Zone wishes to profoundly appreciate its members for their unalloyed support and solidarity during this period.
“Our thanks and appreciation also go to the NEC of our great Union, the Council of National Officers, the Zonal Executive Council, and our various Congresses in the zone.”
ASUP also expressed appreciation to the Minister of Education and the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Education for their proactive intervention.
The zone called on all its members to remain alert and await further directives.