The Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities on Monday commenced fresh negotiations over the union’s demand for a 40 per cent salary increment for lecturers in public universities.
The talks, which are being held in Abuja, are part of efforts to avert another round of industrial action in the nation’s tertiary education sector following renewed agitations by university lecturers over welfare and funding issues.
A senior official of the Ministry of Education, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the meeting involved representatives of the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Labour and Employment, National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission and leaders of ASUU.
“The issue of salary adjustment is on the table and discussions are ongoing. The government is trying to reach a balance that will be sustainable and acceptable to all parties,” the official said.
ASUU has been pressing for an upward review of salaries, citing rising inflation, high cost of living and the erosion of the 2009 agreement signed with the Federal Government.
Speaking earlier, ASUU President said the union expected the government to demonstrate sincerity and urgency in addressing its demands to prevent further disruptions in the academic calendar.
He said, “Our members can no longer cope with the economic realities in the country. We are asking for a fair adjustment and proper implementation of previous agreements.”
It would be recalled that ASUU had embarked on several strikes in the past over issues bordering on funding of universities, earned academic allowances and salary shortfalls.
The Federal Government has repeatedly said it remains committed to dialogue and the stability of the university system.
Investigations revealed that further meetings have been scheduled while both sides await concrete proposals to guide the final resolution of the matter.
