The University of Ibadan, located in Oyo State, has issued a directive to its staff, stipulating a three-day workweek schedule.

This announcement was conveyed through a special release numbered 4642, dated 14th August 2023. The release, which was signed by G.O. Saliu, the Registrar and Secretary to the Council, detailed the new arrangement.

The decision to implement this altered work schedule was prompted by the recent cessation of subsidies on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly referred to as petrol. The university expressed concern over the negative impact of the subsidy removal, particularly on individuals who rely on their salaries and need to commute daily for work. The rise in transportation costs and the overall cost of living have compounded the challenges faced by these salary earners.

After careful deliberation, the institution’s management proposed a temporary adjustment to the work schedule of its staff. This proposal was subjected to consideration by the university’s senate during a meeting held on the 3rd of August 2023. The outcome of this meeting was the approval of the work schedule adjustment, effective from the 14th of August. Notably, individuals engaged in essential duties are exempted from this revised arrangement.

In light of these changes, the university encouraged its staff members to maintain their commitment and adopt open lines of communication and cooperation. To ensure the smooth flow of operations, employees were advised to embrace the possibility of working from home as needed. The university administration called upon deans, directors, heads of departments, and units to collaborate in implementing this intervention seamlessly.

“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 a 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, 2073. 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 Meanwhile, members of staff are to maintain commitment, open communication and cooperation towards ensuring free workflow, including working from home where and when necessary. In light of the foregoing, Management seeks the understanding of all Deans, Directors, Heads of Departments and Units towards a smooth implementation of the intervention,” the statement read.