Abia State Governor Urges ASUU to Foster Financial Independence for Universities

In a recent engagement with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Abia State University (ABSU), Governor Alex Otti emphasized the necessity for universities to innovate financially rather than relying solely on government funding.

Governor Otti stressed the importance of universities, especially established ones, to become self-sufficient and independent of government subvention. He encouraged ASUU members to brainstorm strategies for generating revenue within the university system, highlighting the significance of research in this endeavor.

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"Even from research alone, if there is anything happening in the University, we should be able to generate enough resources to do a few things," Otti asserted.

He further expressed his commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at enhancing the financial autonomy of ABSU and assured the ASUU leadership of his willingness to address outstanding issues affecting the university.

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Acknowledging the challenges faced by the institution, Otti promised to set up a visitation panel to evaluate and strengthen the governance framework of ABSU. Additionally, he pledged to review the union's request for increased subvention and explore avenues for resolving salary arrears owed to lecturers.

In response, Dr. Uduak, representing ASUU ABSU, commended Governor Otti for his administration's developmental projects and prompt payment of subventions, which she deemed crucial for fostering harmonious relations between the government and the union.

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However, Dr. Uduak highlighted pressing concerns, including salary arrears and the need for infrastructural improvements. She urged the government to prioritize these issues and initiate necessary interventions.

Dr. Chidi Mbah, the ASUU ABSU Branch Chairperson, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the university's challenges. He invited Governor Otti to visit the campus personally to witness the situation firsthand.

Governor Otti's call for universities to pursue financial independence reflects a broader imperative for educational institutions to explore innovative funding models amid fiscal constraints. By fostering self-sufficiency and leveraging research capabilities, universities can enhance their resilience and contribute to national development.