BY AMIDAT SHITTU OPEYEMI
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Lagos State University of Education (LASUED) chapter, has called for enhanced communication and collaboration with the institution’s management to prevent unresolved issues from escalating. The union emphasized that its advocacy for improved staff welfare is both necessary and justified.
Speaking on the matter, Dr. Victor Akinola, a union representative, explained that the concerns raised by ASUU LASUED fall into two main categories: those that the university management can address internally and those requiring intervention from the Lagos State Government.
Ongoing Concerns and Areas for Improvement
When asked whether the outstanding issues had been resolved, Akinola stated that progress had been made on some fronts, but several critical matters still required attention.
“Our demands focus primarily on staff welfare, covering areas such as salary payments, bonuses, increments, outstanding arrears, and relocation allowances. Some of these concerns can be handled by the university management, while others fall under the jurisdiction of the state government,” he explained.
Akinola clarified that past reports may have misrepresented the union’s concerns, particularly in comparing the institution’s infrastructure to that of other universities. He acknowledged that LASUED boasts impressive instructional facilities but pointed out specific challenges that need urgent attention.
“Certain issues—like the lack of service vehicles for deans and an inadequate water supply at the Epe campus—were only partially addressed. While the university is well-equipped in terms of infrastructure and academic resources, there are still areas where improvement is necessary for the overall well-being of staff and students,” he noted.
Call for Constructive Engagement
The union urged the management to adopt a more proactive approach to addressing concerns rather than allowing them to escalate into major disputes. Akinola stressed that regular dialogue between the academic staff and the university leadership would create a more productive and harmonious working environment.
“Strengthening engagement between ASUU LASUED and the university management will ensure that staff welfare is consistently prioritized and that challenges are resolved before they become crises,” he said.
ASUU LASUED also reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for better working conditions while maintaining professionalism and cooperation with the university’s leadership. The union remains hopeful that open communication will lead to lasting solutions that benefit both staff and students.
