Eschew Discord to Save University Education, Committee of State Universities Pro-chancellors Plead with FG, Unions
The Committee of Pro-Chancellors of State-Owned Universities (COPSUN) has implored the federal government and relevant stakeholders to exhibit goodwill without further procrastination to avert potential crises stemming from the protracted discord between the government and university-based unions.
COPSUN commended the federal government for its recent decision to impose a moratorium on the further proliferation of universities in Nigeria.
It recommended that the government annually review and augment budgetary allocations, ensuring the timely release of funds to the education sector to fortify existing universities.
These resolutions were articulated in a communiqué issued at the conclusion of COPSUN’s 69th meeting, held at the Conference Room, CVCNU Secretariat, Wuse Abuja.
A copy was disseminated to journalists in Ibadan by its acting Chairman, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Professor Ayodeji Omole.
The Pro-Chancellors of State-Owned Universities asserted that “the nation cannot endure another bout of industrial action within the university system, as the institutions have yet to fully recuperate from the disruptions of the previous crisis.”
They emphasized the inclusion of COPSUN representatives in dispute resolution and negotiations when trade disputes involving national labor unions within universities arise.
To prevent unnecessary conflicts, the body advised that Pro-Chancellors adhere strictly to university laws to avoid undue friction with Vice-Chancellors.
