Bauchi Gov Sets Up Panel To Investigate Causes Of Strike, Other Challenges In SAZU
By Khalid Idris Doya
The Bauchi State Governor Bala A. Mohammed in his capacity as the Visitor to the Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU), a state owned university, has approved the constitution of a high-level Visitation Panel to undertake a comprehensive review of the institution.
The Governor sets up the panel to investigate the causes of the ongoing strike, with specific focus on staff welfare concerns and industrial relations and ro review the financial operations of SAZU, including funding sources, expenditure patterns, and compliance with statutory provisions.
According to a statement issued by Mukhtar M. Gidado, Special Adviser Media and Publicity to the Bauchi Governor yesterday, Prof. Gambo Laraba Abdullahi was appointed as chairperson of the panel.
He said this move underscores the government’s commitment to restoring stability and fostering an environment conducive to academic excellence in the institution.
Statement further said the panel has been tasked with the responsibility of investigating challenges and to provide actionable recommendations arising from welfare and administrative challenges that have disrupted academic activities and created operational uncertainty within the university for a long-term stability and progress.
“The Bauchi State Government under the inspirational leadership of Governor Bala Mohammed reassures the university community and the general public of its unwavering commitment to the growth and stability of Sa’adu Zungur University, Gadau.
“The outcome of this exercise will not only address immediate concerns but also lay the foundation for a sustained growth, financial probity, restore confidence in the institution and position it as a hub for academic excellence and industrial harmony,” Gidado added.
Bala urged all stakeholders, including staff, students, and the public, to cooperate fully with the panel during its assignment.
The panel has been given eight weeks from the date of its inauguration to complete its assignment and submit a detailed report to the government.
Other members of the Visitation Panel, composed of eminent professionals and education experts are: Director Ministry of Higher Education and Regional Integration; Abdullahi Usman Kardam; Engr. Adamu Sama’ila; Barr. Ben Ogbuchi and Usman Aliyu Kawu.
The rest are Adamu Babayo Gabarin; Mohammed Atiku Isa while Permanent Secretary Establishment, Office of the Head of Civil Service will serve as Secretary of the panel.
The panel also has a mandate to examine the adequacy and effectiveness of academic programs, research initiatives, and quality assurance mechanisms and to evaluate the state of infrastructure, facilities, and resources required for teaching, learning and research.
“To assess the governance structure and adherence to the University’s enabling laws as well as to recommend policies and strategies to address identified gaps in welfare, funding, infrastructure, and academic excellence.”
The panel will develop a framework for preventing future industrial disputes and enhancing stakeholder engagement.
