In an executive order issued on the 19th of December, Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, approved an increase in the Retirement age for academic staff in state-owned tertiary institutions from 60 to 65 years. In response, the management of Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic, Zaria, praised the decision, describing it as a major step towards improving staff Welfare and strengthening the state’s Education sector. The initiative has been widely regarded as a progressive policy that aligns with national goals for education and workforce development, enabling institutions to retain experienced personnel for extended periods.
A statement signed by the Secretary for Information and Protocol, Abdullahi Ibrahim Shehu, quoted the rector of the polytechnic, Dr. Mohammed Abdullahi, commending the governor for his forward-thinking leadership. He described the policy as a much-needed reform that demonstrates a commitment to the welfare of academic staff and the advancement of education in Kaduna State. This decision, if fully implemented, could have a long-term positive impact on the quality of education, as institutions would benefit from the expertise of experienced lecturers who might otherwise have been forced into early retirement. This reflects the critical role educators play in societal development, ensuring continuity and stability within the academic system.
Polytechnic management pledges support for educational advancement.
Furthermore, the statement extended gratitude to the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Nubapoly chapter, and the Commissioner for Education, Professor Muhammad Sani Bello, for their collaborative efforts in ensuring the success of this initiative. It noted that their advocacy for prioritising staff welfare was instrumental in shaping this policy. By addressing the needs of educators and engaging stakeholders, the government has taken a practical approach to solving challenges in the education sector. This collaboration is expected to strengthen the bond between the government and academic institutions while fostering a sense of shared responsibility for achieving common goals.
In addition to this, the polytechnic management has pledged its full support for Governor Sani’s administration and its efforts to improve the education sector. By showing a willingness to listen to the concerns of academic unions and take decisive action, the administration has fostered goodwill among educators and other stakeholders. This cooperative approach is expected to encourage further reforms that will benefit the education sector in Kaduna State. The polytechnic’s commitment to working collaboratively with the government demonstrates a shared determination to achieve lasting improvements in the educational landscape.
Retirement extension to benefit both educators and institutions.
The increase in the retirement age is expected to address immediate workforce challenges within the state’s tertiary institutions. One significant benefit is the retention of experienced lecturers who are often difficult to replace, ensuring academic stability and reducing the frequent disruptions caused by staff shortages. This policy also provides an opportunity for institutions to bridge generational gaps, as retiring educators now have more time to mentor younger staff members and pass on their expertise. Additionally, the longer service period will help reduce the financial and administrative burden of frequent recruitment, allowing institutions to focus resources on improving academic infrastructure.
Beyond addressing staffing challenges, the extended retirement age also brings long-term benefits for educational development. Academic staff now have an extended career path, offering them more time to refine their teaching methods, engage in advanced research, and contribute to professional bodies. For institutions, this means sustained access to seasoned educators capable of driving high-impact research and innovation. By fostering a more experienced workforce, the policy strengthens the quality of education delivered to students and enhances the reputation of Kaduna State’s tertiary institutions on a national and global scale.
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Ultimately, the decision to extend the retirement age is a landmark policy that underscores the governor’s dedication to addressing the challenges facing education in Kaduna State. By valuing the contributions of educators and fostering an environment where their expertise can thrive, the government has taken a significant step towards building a robust and sustainable education system. This initiative not only sets a positive precedent for other states to follow but also reaffirms Kaduna’s commitment to empowering its workforce and enhancing the quality of education.