By PEACE AREMU

The Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS), Kogi Chapter, has urged the state government to restore the suspended 27.5 per cent Teachers’ Special Allowance (TSA) and recruit more qualified teachers to address manpower shortages in public secondary schools.

The union made the call on Friday in Lokoja during a press briefing by its State Chairman, Mr Emejeh Sunday, who presented the communiqué issued at the end of the union’s State Executive Council (SEC) meeting.

ASUSS said that the restoration of the allowance would boost teachers’ morale and reaffirm the government’s commitment to improving the quality of secondary education in the state.

According to the union, the allowance was negotiated under a valid Collective Bargaining Agreement and introduced to recognise the unique demands and challenges of the teaching profession.

It also expressed concern over the shortage of teachers in public secondary schools, warning that the increasing workload on available personnel was affecting effective teaching and learning.

The union, therefore, called for the immediate recruitment of qualified teachers to fill existing vacancies.

It also appealed to the government to introduce a motorcycle loan scheme for teachers serving in rural communities to ease transportation challenges and enhance their productivity.

ASUSS commended Gov. Ahmed Ododo’s administration for sustaining industrial harmony, strengthening security and maintaining a cordial relationship with workers.

It, however, said more decisive action was required to address critical challenges affecting the education sector.

The union also raised concern over recurring attacks on schools and educational communities, describing the development as a threat to effective learning and the safety of teachers and students.

It called on the government and security agencies to strengthen security around schools through proactive intelligence gathering, community participation and rapid response to emergencies.

On healthcare, the union commended the Kogi State Health Insurance Scheme, describing it as a major initiative capable of improving access to quality healthcare for workers and their families.

It, however, urged members who were yet to enrol in the scheme to do so to benefit from the programme.

ASUSS also appealed to the government to review the current pattern of gratuity payments to retired workers.

It noted that although efforts to clear outstanding liabilities were commendable, retirees deserved more substantial and regular payments.

The union commended teachers across the state for remaining committed to their responsibilities despite prevailing economic challenges.

It reaffirmed its commitment to dialogue and constructive engagement with the government in addressing issues affecting teachers and the education sector.

“We remain committed to constructive engagement, mutual respect and dialogue as the best means of addressing issues affecting teachers and the education sector,” the union said. (NAN)