The Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) held its 2024 National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja, addressing critical challenges facing Nigeria’s education sector, including funding crises, infrastructure decay, and staff welfare.
During the meeting, NASU President Dr. Makolo Hassan emphasized that inadequate funding severely hinders the sector’s ability to provide quality education and foster research. He highlighted that the lack of financial resources limits schools’ capacity to invest in modern technology and learning materials, directly impacting staff welfare, leading to poor remuneration and low morale among workers. This, in turn, undermines the overall quality of education and institutional goals.
Dr. Hassan commended the Senate for calling for improved funding for universities, but urged the National Assembly to take concrete actions beyond passing motions. He advocated for a proactive approach during budget approvals to ensure sustained improvements in the funding of tertiary institutions, stressing that all children deserve equal educational opportunities.
A significant concern raised by Dr. Hassan was the Federal Government’s failure to adhere to industrial relations practices, specifically the non-implementation of agreements made with unions. He pointed out that unresolved collective agreements dating back to 2009 and 2010 have left NASU members frustrated, as critical welfare and working conditions remain unaddressed.
Dr. Hassan also criticized the government’s handling of unpaid salaries, specifically highlighting the four months of unpaid salaries for NASU members in universities and inter-university centers. He called on the Minister of Finance to implement President Bola Tinubu’s directive to resolve this issue to prevent further industrial unrest.
In conclusion, Dr. Hassan urged the Federal Government to honor its agreements with NASU, address various memorandums of agreement, and implement necessary funding and policy changes to ensure a stable and productive educational environment.
