Towards the end of 2006, the university had had its staff withholding their labour in protest of an ill thought parking policy. The protest culminated with staff petitioning the Vice Chancellor, This time in 2007, we are gearing ourselves to start the core duty of this high institution of learning the students had to contend with a registration process that was complicated by management interference. This raised concern amongst the students whether they will have accommodation and even unsure if they would get food. This is a management that has nurtured a culture of resolving contentious staff and students' welfare issues after protests. What a shame! Students came near to boycotting classes because of a meal allowance jostle with management.
As we were counting down days towards the end of 2006, I caught a glimpse of some announcement over the national radio reporting the Chairman of the UB Council's response to the staff petition that declared a vote of no confidence in the Vice Chancellor following the strike that ensued because of parking space. The response touched on a number of staff welfare and students issues, but I would like to address myself to the issue of parking. Let us be reminded that the issue of parking problems started way back in 2004. It is well and good for the UB Council Chairman to have responded as he did. It must be stated clearly that the issue of parking affects staff far more than it affects management. It is a pity that the UB Council Chairman sees it differently from the staff on the ground that it is mostly affected on a daily basis.
