The Chairman of the Governing Council of Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete, Professor Abdulganiyu Ambali, OON, has announced the approval of a new minimum wage of ₦70,000 for the institution’s staff, effective December 2024. The initiative aims to foster industrial harmony and strengthen staff commitment to the university’s vision.
Professor Ambali made the announcement on Thursday, November 28, 2024, during a meeting with the executives of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Ibadan Zone, held at the Council Chamber of KWASU Business School, Ilorin.
Highlighting the university’s alignment with ASUU’s philosophy of prioritizing workers’ welfare, Professor Ambali reiterated the council’s dedication to motivating staff to deliver their best. “We are committed to creating a conducive workplace and ensuring that staff welfare remains a priority,” he stated.
Beyond the minimum wage, KWASU has introduced several measures to enhance staff welfare:
Consequential salary adjustments:
N100,000 school fees rebate for staff members’ biological children studying at KWASU.
N50,000 monthly stipend for staff with disabilities.
Subsidized transportation scheme to ease commuting between Ilorin and Malete.
Additionally, the council is actively engaging with the Kwara State Government to address ASUU’s demands, including the payment of Earned Academic Allowance (EAA).
The Zonal Coordinator of ASUU, Ibadan Zone, Comrade Oyegoke Oyebamiji, commended KWASU’s administration for fostering understanding and maintaining a conflict-free environment. He emphasized the need for increased funding of universities to ensure they effectively address societal needs.
“Reinstating subventions and addressing Earned Academic Allowances are crucial for the growth and stability of our universities,” Comrade Oyebamiji noted. He also lauded ASUU’s role in establishing the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), a vital source of support for Nigerian tertiary institutions.
KWASU’s proactive approach to staff welfare and its ongoing dialogue with ASUU have been credited with preventing industrial action within the institution. This collaborative spirit reflects the university’s commitment to excellence and its recognition of staff contributions as pivotal to achieving its goals.
The announcement of the new minimum wage and other welfare initiatives reinforces KWASU’s position as a forward-thinking institution dedicated to the well-being of its workforce.
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