The University of Ibadan (UI) management has directed its staff members to start coming to work three days a week. This is to cushion the increasing bite of the fuel subsidy removal.
The temporary work schedule adjustment for staff members was recommended following its consideration and approval by the Senate, which met on Thursday, 3 August 2023.
The directive was in a Special Release 4642 tagged “Temporary Work Schedule Adjustment,” dated 14 August 2023.
The UI Management, in a release by the Registrar and Secretary to the Council, G. O. Saliu, attributed the directive to the astronomical increase in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) pumps.
The UI Management stated that the increase in the pump price of PMS, otherwise known as petroleum, has imposed huge economic difficulties on Nigerians.
It was noted that the impact of the increment was felt more by salary earners who commuted to work every working day.
According to the directive, staff members are expected to be coming to work for three days in rotation per week, effective Monday, 14 August 2023.
The Management, however, stated that those its staff on essential duties are exempted from the adjustment.
The UI Management added that the temporary work schedule arrangement is subject to review, in line with the general situation.
“The astronomical increase in the fuel pump price occasioned by the removal of subsidy by the Federal Government has imposed huge economic difficulties on the generality of Nigerians.
“Salary earners who have to commute to work every working day are faced with an aggravation of the condition, given the attendant hike in the transport fare and cost of living.
“After careful consideration of the situation, the University Management recommended a temporary work schedule adjustment for members of staff, which Senate, at its meeting of Thursday, 03 August 2023, considered and approved.
“Accordingly, members of staff are now expected to work on-site for three (3) days in rotation per week, with effect from Monday, 14 August 2023.
“It should, however, be noted that those on essential duties are exempted from this adjustment.
“It should be further noted that Management will review the arrangement as the situation improves,” it was stated in the Special Release.
The UI staff members were encouraged to maintain commitment, open communication, and cooperation to ensure a free workflow, including working from home where and when necessary.
It added, “In light of the foregoing, Management seeks the understanding of all Deans, Directors, Heads of Departments, and Units to ensure a smooth implementation of the intervention. “