Workweek Reduction: University Of Ibadan Implements Three-day Workdays Amid Subsidy Removal
The University of Ibadan, situated in Oyo State, has enacted a new directive mandating its staff to work for three days each week. This development was unveiled through an official statement, labeled as a special release under number 4642 and dated August 14, 2023. The announcement was formally endorsed by G.O. Saliu, the Registrar and Secretary to Council of the university.
The decision to implement this altered work schedule is rooted in the recent decision to discontinue subsidies for Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol.
The statement elucidated, “The significant surge in fuel pump prices due to the government’s removal of subsidies has inflicted substantial economic hardships on the broader Nigerian populace. This has particularly exacerbated the challenges faced by salaried individuals who commute to work daily, given the concurrent rise in transportation costs and the overall cost of living.”
After careful consideration of this predicament, the University Management put forth a temporary adjustment to the work routine of its staff. This proposition was subjected to deliberation during a Senate meeting held on Thursday, August 3, 2023, and subsequently received approval.
Under the revised work arrangement, the university’s staff members are expected to engage in on-site work for three days per week, operating on a rotational basis. This alteration took effect on Monday, August 14, 2023. The management clarified that employees with essential duties are exempt from this adjustment.
The statement underscored the prospective evolution of this arrangement as the overall situation improves. During this transitional period, staff members are encouraged to exhibit dedication, foster open lines of communication, and extend cooperation to ensure the smooth continuation of tasks, including the option of working remotely where suitable.
In light of the circumstances, the university’s management called upon Deans, Directors, Heads of Departments, and Units to collaborate and facilitate the seamless execution of this intervention.
