By Sule Aliyu Bauçhi
Authourities of Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU), Bauchi State, has debunked media reports that no fewer than 30 doctorate degree holders have exited the University due to poor salary
The University in a signed statement by the Public Relations Officer of SAZU, Auwal Hassan, made available to Krestnews, described the claim as “misleading, inaccurate, and unfounded”
Setting the facts and giving clarifications on the issue, the release disclosed that SAZU has not received any resignation letter from PhD staff citing poor salary.
“Only six PhD holders have exited or are away from the university in the past one year and 10 months, citing personal reasons not related to salary concerns,” it stated.
The release disclosed that while six academic staff were dismissed based on abscondment or disciplinary grounds, two left on sabbatical, two others are not around due to secondment while one is away on Leave of Absence.
Hassan disclosed that SAZU has a current total number of 397 academic staff which include 18 Professors, nine Readers, 57 Senior Lecturers, 113 Lecturer I, 47 Lecturer II, 76 Assistant Lecturers and 77 Graduate Assistants. I'll
“The university has consistently prioritized staff welfare and development, implementing initiatives to enhance working conditions, including timely salary payment and financial benefits,” he stated.
“Numerous academic staff have been promoted since December 2022, with full payment of promotion arrears.
“2022 Promotion: 5 Professors, 2 Readers, 19 Senior Lecturers.
“2023 Promotion: 6 Professors, 4 Readers, 17 Senior Lecturers.
“2024 Promotion: 2 Professors, 5 Readers, 20 Senior Lecturers”
The PRO disclosed that SAZU’s regular training and retraining of staff were usually conducted in collaboration with reputable organizations.
On infrastructural development, he disclosed that the state government is committed to improving the university’s physical infrastructure, including the construction of access roads and staff quarters.
“Requests for perimeter fencing and additional hostel blocks are receiving positive consideration,” he said.
“The state government has approved the release of N153 million for NUC accreditation of courses.
“SAZU received financial and in-kind support from the State Government for its maiden combined convocation”
On autonomy and Employment, he revealed that the university governing council has been given a free hand for employment of staff.
The PRO revealed that so far over 160 qualified staff had been employed while advertising for more academic staff.
“The University has implemented payment of Earned Academic Allowances (EAA) and other benefits,” he said.
“Staff are covered by the state government’s retirement and death benefit policy.