In a joyful response to the recent directive from the federal government, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has lauded the decision to exclude universities and tertiary institutions from the Integrated Personnel Payroll Information System (IPPIS).
Viewed as a significant stride towards resolving persistent issues and fostering a more stable university system, this move has been welcomed by the academic community.
The confirmation of the exemption came during a session of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) chaired by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, announced the exemption, which encompasses universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and other tertiary institutions, following the council meeting held in Abuja.
Expressing gratitude for the decision, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, President of ASUU, deemed it a positive step in aligning universities with their fundamental functions.
He highlighted that the decision addressed a crucial grievance that had been a catalyst for strikes and salary payment issues within the union.
“If that is correct, it is a good step in the right direction. We commend the administration for that. That’s what we’re talking about. If that’s correct, we are now coming up as universities gradually,” Osodeke stated in an exclusive interview with newsmen
While commending the government’s initiative, Osodeke called upon President Tinubu’s administration to address other outstanding concerns, including rectifying penalties imposed on ASUU members who advocated for necessary reforms within the system.
“While correcting those issues, the government should also correct the issue of our members who were punished for asking for the correct things. That is the next step to talk about,” emphasized Osodeke.
