Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has established a nine-member visitation panel to address the ongoing strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU), a state-owned institution,wikkitimes reports.
The strike, declared by SAZU-ASUU, stems from unresolved issues, including the lack of a pension and retirement scheme for staff, unpaid earned academic allowances, and the non-implementation of consequential adjustments over the past four years. In a statement issued on Thursday by his spokesperson, Mukhtar Gidado, Governor Mohammed expressed optimism that the panel’s findings would restore stability and create a conducive environment for academic excellence at the university.
Panel’s Mandate
The panel has been tasked with investigating challenges disrupting academic activities at SAZU and offering actionable recommendations to ensure long-term stability and progress. Members of the panel include:
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Chairperson: Professor Laraba Abdullahi
- Members:
- Abdullahi Usman Kardam (Director, Ministry of Higher Education and Regional Integration)
- Engr. Adamu Sama’ila
- Barr. Ben Ogbuchi
- Usman Aliyu Kawu
- Adamu Gabarin
- Mohammed Isa
- Permanent Secretary, Establishment Office, Office of the Head of Civil Service (Secretary to the Panel)
Terms of Reference
The committee’s objectives are to:
- Investigate the causes of the ongoing strike, focusing on staff welfare and industrial relations.
- Review the financial operations of SAZU, including funding sources, expenditure patterns, and compliance with statutory regulations.
- Assess the adequacy and effectiveness of academic programs, research initiatives, and quality assurance mechanisms.
- Evaluate the state of infrastructure, facilities, and resources required for teaching, learning, and research.
- Examine the university’s governance structure and adherence to its enabling laws.
Governor’s Commitment
Governor Mohammed reaffirmed his dedication to the growth and stability of SAZU, emphasizing that the panel’s work would address both immediate concerns and lay a foundation for sustainable progress.
“The outcome of this exercise will not only resolve pressing issues but also ensure financial accountability, restore confidence in the institution, and position it as a hub for academic excellence and industrial harmony,” the governor stated.
The panel has been given eight weeks from its inauguration to complete its assignment and submit a detailed report to the government.
