Polytechnic Workers Reject Prof Onu’s Re-Appointment As Rector Federal Polytechnic Oko

JOINT ACTION COMMITTEE OF TRADE UNIONS

FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC, OKO

The Honourable Minister of Education,                                          31:01:14

Federal Ministry of Education,

Abuja.

Sir,

APPOINTMENT OF RECTOR FOR THE FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC, OKO

Preamble:

A meeting of the Joint Action Committee of Trade Unions (ASUP, NASU, SSANIP) took place on Friday January 31, 2014. The meeting took place with a view to discussing common issues that relate to the welfare of staff, the progress of the polytechnic system and that of the nation. JACTU also examined the lingering but crucial labour issues at the Federal Polytechnic, Oko. A key issue in the meeting was the appointment of rector for the Federal Polytechnic, Oko.

The issue

The continued appointment of unqualified people as rectors is a crucial aspect of the on-going ASUP engagement with the Federal Government. JACTU totally identifies with the position of ASUP National Executive Council (NEC) and the resolution of ASUP Federal Polytechnic, Oko Chapter on the need to appoint the Rectors from within the polytechnic system. JACTU considers this position as germane, timely and non-negotiable as reiterated in the Zonal Executive Council of ASUP Zone D Enugu from 14^th to 16^th of January, 2014.

Cognizance of the above, JACTU has urged the Governing Council begin a process of appointing a polytechnic generated rector in view of the fact that the tenure of the incumbent rector expires in March 2014. JACTU is of the view that a polytechnic generated rector is better equipped to manage the affairs of a polytechnic and maintains that people who have spent all their time serving the polytechnic system should be allowed to aspire to the highest office in the system. In this regard, JACTU reiterates its resolve to reject further appointment of any rector outside the polytechnic system.

In at least 19 out of 21 Federal Polytechnics, the rectors are from the polytechnic sector (see recent advertisements for recruitment of rectors at Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa, Umaru Federal Polytechnic, Birnin-Kebbi and Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro as attached).  Federal Polytechnic, Oko cannot be an exception.

Conclusion

JACTU therefore considers this position a lofty idea in line with the prevailing practice in other Federal Polytechnics nationwide and as a means of promoting industrial peace.   JACTU has confidence that the Honourable Minister has the capacity to address the matter, and urges him to do so.

Accept sir, the assurances of our utmost regards and camaraderie.

Chairman ASUP                                                           Gen. Secretary ASUP

                        

Chairman NASU                                                                 Secretary NASU

Chairman SSANIP                                                              Secretary SSANIP

Cc:

     Director, Higher Education, Polytechnics

     Deputy Director, Higher Education, Polytechnics

     Chairman NBTE Board

     Executive Secretary, NBTE

     Chairman Governing Council, Federal Polytechnic, Oko