By Onwa Ekor, Calabar
Cross River governor, Prince Bassey Otu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) to compete favourably with other notable academic citadel as well as meet global standards.
Speaking during a meeting with the University’s leadership and stakeholders, the governor stressed the need for unity and strategic collaboration to address systemic challenges affecting the institution.
“We need UNICROSS to set strategic objectives and produce qualified graduates despite various systemic problems.
“This is also a strong appeal for collaboration, hence we need unity as this is not a time to pick sides,” he stated.
The governor who pledged to commence the process of wage adjustments, assured that issues surrounding poor infrastructure and staff welfare would be given immediate attention even as he applauded the various unions efforts in stabilizing the school despite financial constraints.
“The school is dear to us and now that there are grounds for collaboration, we will begin work on our end to address infrastructure deficits as we want productivity and improved staff morale,” Otu said.
According to him, his administration understands the need for salary adjustments, hence would start the process as soon as possible.
On security, the governor informed that “we will work with relevant authorities to ensure the safety and development of the institution.”
Earlier, the institution’s Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Francisca Bassey, highlighted pressing issues affecting the institution, particularly the dire need for improved working conditions and infrastructural upgrades.
She commended union leaders for their patience and stressed the need for continuous synergy in a bid to enhance a conducive academic environment.
“I would like to thank the union leaders for their respect and understanding. We need good working conditions to take the school to the next level.
“The educational sector deserves more attention because we train people and conduct vital researches,” she noted.
Bassey further revealed the urgent need to complete accreditation for 16 programs in the institution which had long undergone pre-verification.
Her words: “If we miss this opportunity, we will have to start from scratch, which would set us back significantly.”
Chairman, Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), UNICROSS Chapter, Comrade Patrick Ushie, outlined several demands, including the full implementation of the minimum wage, payment of outstanding promotion arrears, and improved working conditions.
“The government should as a matter of urgency commit more resources towards improving facilities, security, and halting land encroachment. We also demand the immediate payment of all third-party deductions such as check-off dues, cooperatives, welfare, and national housing fund deductions,” Ushie appealed.
The meeting was attended by key stakeholders, including Secretary to the State Government; Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh, Chairman Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities, UNICROSS chapter, Mac Ayo and other union leaders.