The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has appealed to the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) to resolve the ongoing industrial action for the future of polytechnic students.
A letter of appeal to the minister of Education, Federal Ministry of Education, Abuja and the national president, Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), a copy of which was obtained by LEADERSHIP Weekend said, the ongoing strike action will have adverse impact on the future of Nigerian polytechnic students.
The letter which was signed by the national vice president of NAPS, Comrade Oghayan Eshiofune Paul, averred that while the association recognises and respects the grievances and legitimate demands of ASUP, they are equally concerned about the irreparable damage this industrial action could cause to the educational aspirations of thousands of students.
“It is undeniable that the issues raised by ASUP, including respect for the Federal Polytechnics Act, improved working conditions, and prompt fulfillment of financial commitments, are critical for the progress of the polytechnic education system. Likewise, we appreciate the efforts of the Federal Government in addressing some of these concerns, albeit partially.”
However, the student body said, the prolonged deadlock and suspension of academic activities have placed students at the receiving end, disrupting their academic calendars, plans and overall morale.
“We passionately appeal to both the Federal Government and ASUP to prioritise the future of students by returning to the negotiation table with a renewed commitment to constructive dialogue. A genuine resolution of these issues can only be achieved through mutual understanding, respect, and the willingness to compromise for the greater good.
“To the Federal Government, we urge you to act swiftly and decisively in addressing the outstanding issues, including the proper appointment of rectors, release of intervention funds and implementation of the agreed salary reviews and arrears.”
NAPS also called on the federal government to demonstrate commitment to the polytechnic education sector by allocating adequate resources and adhering to agreed timelines in resolving these disputes.
To ASUP, the student body said, “while your concerns are valid and justifiable, we humbly request that you consider the plight of students whose futures are at stake. Kindly explore alternative methods of expressing your grievances while allowing academic activities to continue. A suspension of the strike, even temporarily, would be a significant show of goodwill to facilitate further negotiations.”
The NAPS leadership said, education is the cornerstone of national development, and any prolonged disruption undermines this foundation, while expressing confidence that both parties can rise above the current impasse and find a sustainable solution that benefits all stakeholders.
“We plead with the Federal Government and ASUP to place the welfare of students at the forefront of their considerations. The hopes and dreams of countless students rest in your hands, and your actions in the coming days will shape their destinies,” the letter added.
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