Gov. Kefas to Settle all outstanding Salaries in Taraba Tertiary Institutions.

To devote a Large Sum of funds from loan in the education sector.

The Executive Governor of Taraba State has promised to settle all outstanding Salaries owned to tertiary institutions in the state as soon as funds are available, the governor made the promise when he met with all the heads of the various tertiary institutions  in Jalingo on Monday, 28th August,2023. 

According to sources from Taraba News, the Taraba State University has grappled with extended delays in salary disbursements, including unpaid Earn Allowances and overdue Promotions Arrears spanning a period of ten months. The university had previously initiated a strike during the prior administration, which was later suspended due to assurances made by Dr. Agbu Kefas, the then PDP candidate. Governor Kefas's unwavering efforts to alleviate these financial challenges and enhance the education in the landscape have earned a wide accolades.

Taraba News has also learned that the College of Agriculture and Technology currently employed over 100 staff who are yet to receive their salaries.

In a bid to resolve these, Governor Kefas reiterated his commitment to addressing the financial hardships plaguing these institutions. Swift action was taken as he approved the immediate disbursement of long-pending salaries for the state university. Demonstrating his dedication, the Governor pledged to allocate a significant portion of funds from loans earmarked for the education sector. Emmanuel Bello, Special Assistant to the Governor on Media and Digital Communication, conveyed these developments in a subsequent press release.

Governor Kefas emphasized his intent to transparently and responsibly manage the allocated funds, ensuring they are directed towards specific educational projects. The Governor's resolve was warmly welcomed by prominent figures within the Taraba State University, Taraba State Polytechnic, College of Education in Zing, College of Agriculture, College of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Technology in Takum, and other attendees.

Recognizing the pivotal role of education in the state's progress, Governor Kefas underscored the adverse effects of a struggling education system on youth unrest and urban crime rates. He highlighted that the revitalization of the education sector is central to his administration's vision for advancement.

Governor Kefas shared that his government is exploring innovative avenues such as agriculture and solid minerals to boost the state's Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), in addition to federal funds.

As educational institutions prepare for reopening, the meeting with tertiary institution heads holds significant importance. Governor Kefas sought the united support and endorsement of these leaders to effectively implement the free education policy. Addressing energy shortages within schools also featured prominently, with plans to harness solar and alternative power sources to tackle the challenge.

In response, heads of educational institutions expressed their willingness to collaborate with the Governor's vision of providing accessible education.

Taraba News however gathered that the university is currently conducting a  physical verification exercise for its staff. The verification exercise is being carried out by a committee appointed to review the Salary Bill of the university. It most likely that the issue of salary payment will be processed once the verification exercise is completed and the verification team submits their report.