By Adedapo Adesanya
The Kwara State Government has announced the immediate reversal of the pay cut and leave without pay directive to workers on its payroll.
Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Science and Technology, Mrs Sa’adatu Modibbo Kawu, made this announcement in a statement on Monday.
According to the Commissioner, the present administration under the Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazak will continue to prioritise the welfare of staff and students, while ensuring accessible and qualitative learning in all institutions.
“We recognise that the world is facing serious economic crisis at this time and Kwara is not immune. Even then, the Ministry of Tertiary Institution, Science and Technology has not approved any pay cut or leave without pay for any category of workers at this time.
“To this extent, the decision for pay cut or leave without pay is hereby reversed with immediate effect,” she said.
Mrs Kawu, in the statement, also clarified the widespread information concerning employees of the International Aviation College in the state, who were allegedly asked to embark on leave without pay.
“I will like to place on record that this administration has on several occasions approved special intervention funds for the International Aviation College.
“In January, 2020, for instance, N19.460 million was approved and released to the college to pay the salaries of its staff; its aviation insurance fees; and other items needed for smooth flight operations.
“The students of the college are presently on standard pilot course 16, and flight dispatch course 6 — thanks to the administration.
“It is also important to state that the college is presently enjoying virtual learning access, the first of such since the College was established,” Mrs Kawu said.
As measures to tackle the coronavirus pandemic, the state government directed all its employees to work from home until further notice. This directive covered all employees in Kwara State establishments including the Aviation College.
