The Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have moved closer to resolving their long-running dispute, reaching a provisional understanding on the review of the 2009 agreement that governs lecturers’ conditions of service.
The fresh draft, which includes ASUU’s revised demands, is the outcome of renewed talks between both sides after years of disagreement over funding, welfare and governance in public universities.
Key elements of the proposed deal captures the settlement of outstanding salaries previously withheld from lecturers and a commitment to more sustainable financing for the revitalisation of the university system.
The agreement also provides for the payment of unpaid salary shortfalls of between 25 and 35 per cent, clearance of promotion arrears spanning more than four years, and the release of third-party deductions such as cooperative contributions and union check-off dues that were earlier withheld.
ASUU further pressed for an end to what it described as the victimisation of lecturers in some institutions.
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Under the tentative terms, the Federal Government has pledged to approve a 40 per cent salary increase for academic staff and to set up a National Research Council that would enjoy statutory funding of not less than one per cent of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product.
Other provisions include improved retirement benefits for professors, with pensions pegged to their final annual salaries and a retirement age of 70, alongside assurances of greater institutional autonomy, academic freedom and enhanced funding for research facilities, libraries and laboratories.
ASUU President, Prof. Chris Piwuna, who confirmed the development on Friday, said the union expects the current administration to show seriousness in implementing the new framework.
According to him, the union has exercised considerable patience over the years and now wants the government to honour the agreed timeline, particularly the January 26 date proposed for implementation.
Piwuna added that ASUU would continue engagement with the government, including a scheduled meeting with the Minister of Education in the new year.
