ASUU-KASU commends Kaduna govt, says seven issues remain unresolved

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has expressed appreciation to the Kaduna State Government for tackling certain longstanding issues at Kaduna State University (KASU). Dr. Abubakar Abdullahi, Chairman of ASUU-KASU, made these remarks during a press conference in Kaduna. Abdullahi emphasized that the union's demand was not to criticize the government, but to bring attention to areas that needed further intervention to bolster the university.

He acknowledged some actions already taken by the current administration, stating that the union would continue to praise the government whenever it addressed issues. Abdullahi recalled that the government had resolved some of the issues in previous agreements, including those related to salaries and allowances. Out of the 10 issues presented by the union, three had been addressed, while seven remained unresolved.

The union was particularly pleased with the government's review of a previous decision on school fees, which had been opposed by ASUU due to its potential impact on students. Abdullahi stressed that ASUU's interventions were not solely for its members' welfare, but to safeguard the university system and ensure that tertiary education in Kaduna State remains competitive.

He highlighted the university's achievements, noting that despite the challenges, KASU had performed well compared to other institutions. Abdullahi described KASU as an institution capable of serving Kaduna State for generations if properly supported. He emphasized the need for sustained government support, improved staff welfare, and adequate funding to retain the academic workforce and maintain standards.

The two-week ultimatum was not meant for industrial action, but to highlight challenges to the government and the public, hoping they would be resolved before it expired. Abdullahi assured that ASUU remains open to dialogue with the government and ready to maintain peace and stability in the university for the benefit of all stakeholders.

He urged the government to implement the new Federal Government-ASUU agreement, as it could benefit both staff and the administration through improved funding and management. Abdullahi called on the state government to see the outstanding challenges as an opportunity to strengthen KASU and leave a lasting legacy in the education sector.

He emphasized that Kaduna, known as a center of learning, should continue to lead in educational development and not allow other states to surpass it.