The federal government has stated that talks with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have so far been fruitful, expressing optimism that the ongoing strike by the university teachers, which has paralyzed academic activities in the universities nationwide will soon be called off.
The government’s optimism, according to the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, is predicated on the federal government’s consideration of some of ASUU’s demands, including the submission of the union’s list of outstanding payments, and the identification of some areas in the universities in need of revitalisation as contained in the signed 2009 agreement.
He however noted that there are areas that are still outstanding, but that the government is scheduled to address today.
Ngige revealed that during the talks, the quality of graduates from state-owned universities was brought to focus with a view to upgrading the standard of education in order to meet with global standards.
He said state owned universities are not producing graduates that can be employed as several are lacking in competitive skills. He said the federal government through the ministry of education will engage with the Nigeria Governors Forum and will chart a way forward.
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