15th October, 2022
An All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain and Senate Chief Whip, Sen. Orji Kalu (Abia North), has applauded the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) for suspending its eight-month strike.
Kalu also commended the executive and legislative arms of government for continuous engagement with the universities union.
He made the commendation in a statement he issued in Abuja on Friday and which was obtained by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
The Senator who was Abia State governor from May 1999 to May 2007 admonished the Federal Government and ASUU to arrive at a common ground to avoid future strikes.
He emphasised the importance of qualitative and affordable education for national development.
Recalling his free education policy as governor of Abia, Kalu urged the Federal Government and ASUU to find a long-lasting solution to the welfare of lecturers.
According to him, “As a firm and strong advocate of quality and affordable education, I am elated that ASUU has suspended its eight-month strike.
“I had been in regular engagement with a cross-section of the union in a bid to bring the strike to an end.
“Both parties must establish a common ground to avoid any strike in the future.”
He said education was a panacea for development and as such, it must be a top priority in the policy thrust of the government.
“Government has its financial challenges, no doubt, but I am optimistic that the Federal Government and ASUU will work together to improve the quality of education,’’ Kalu stated.
He urged students of tertiary institutions to remain peaceful, steadfast and committed to their academic pursuits.
ASUU embarked on the strike on Feb. 14 to demand improved funding of university education and the adoption of payment of emoluments of members through a digital platform designed by universities. (NAN)