Sokoto govt, ASUU move to avert strike in state universities

The Sokoto State Ministry of Higher Education has met with the leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Sokoto State University and Shehu Shagari University of Education to address issues that could lead to industrial action.

The meeting was held as part of efforts to resolve concerns raised by academic staff and avert a possible strike in the state-owned universities.

The Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Isa Maishanu, and the Permanent Secretary, Ismaila Ibrahim Binji, led the government delegation at the meeting.

ASUU was represented by the Sokoto State University branch chairman, Dr Bello Musa, alongside other union executives.

According to a statement by Ibrahim Iya, Public Relations Officer of the Ministry of Higher Education, the meeting focused on outstanding entitlements and other concerns affecting academic staff.

The parties particularly discussed discrepancies in the implementation of the Consolidated University Academic Structure (CONUASS) and the omission of some professional allowances.

Following the deliberations, the ministry agreed to conduct a comprehensive review of the grievances presented by the union.

The ministry will submit its findings and recommendations to the Sokoto State Governor, Ahmad Aliyu, for consideration and approval.

Maishanu reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing staff welfare concerns through dialogue and established procedures.

The ministry said the meeting ended with both parties reaffirming their commitment to continued collaboration in the interest of industrial harmony and the advancement of education in Sokoto State.