Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has raised a nine-member visitation panel to review the ongoing strike by members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at the Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU), a Bauchi government-funded varsity.
SAZU-ASUU had declared an indefinite strike following the inability of the university management to address lingering issues. The issues include the absence of a pension and retirement scheme for Varsity Staff, unpaid earned academic allowances and non-implementation of Consequential adjustments for four years.
Governor Mohammed on Thursday in a statement signed by his spokesperson, Mukhtar Gidado, said the findings of the panel would restore stability and foster an environment conducive to academic excellence in the university.
He said the panel has been tasked with the responsibility of investigating challenges and “providing actionable recommendations arising from welfare and administrative challenges that have disrupted academic activities and created operational uncertainty within the university for long-term stability and progress.”
The governor said members of the panel include Professor Laraba Abdullahi as chairperson; director ministry of higher education and regional integration; Abdullahi Usman Kardam; Engr. Adamu Sama’ila; Barr. Ben Ogbuchi; Usman Aliyu Kawu; Adamu Gabarin; Mohammed Isa and permanent secretary establishment, office of the head of Civil Service would serve as secretary of the panel.
He said the terms of reference of the committee include investigating the causes of the ongoing strike, with a specific focus on staff welfare concerns and industrial relations; to review the financial operations of BASUG, including funding sources, expenditure patterns, and compliance with statutory provisions; to examine the adequacy and effectiveness of academic programs, research initiatives, and quality assurance mechanisms; to evaluate the state of infrastructure, facilities, and resources required for teaching, learning and research and to assess the governance structure and adherence to the University’s enabling laws.
Governor Mohammed reaffirmed his commitment to the growth and stability of Sa’adu Zungur University.
“The outcome of this exercise will not only address immediate concerns but also lay the foundation for sustained growth and financial probity, restore confidence in the institution and position it as a hub for academic excellence and industrial harmony,” he said.
Governor Mohammed said the panel has been given Eight Weeks from the date of its inauguration to complete its assignment and submit a detailed report to government.
