THE UTAG AND POTAG STRIKE, MY STORY

The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page...the words of Augustine of Hippo.

I will not hasten to add my voice to the ever-embracing issue of general concern involving UTAG, POTAG and the government of which students bear the direct effect. Out of this some have come out to brand USAG and NUGS as ill-functional because of their inability to be heard especially at the time when needed most.

I believe in innovation and that the way you get innovation is you fund research and you learn the basic facts.  -Bill Gates.

Research is good and needs to be encouraged and sustained. I believe all who work deserve their reward. However, the fact remains that some people refuse to work, yet yearn for a reward. It was very unfortunate seeing myriad of undeserving people whose names managed to be part of the Book and Research allowance payroll. We are the cause of our own doom, we leave in a country where mediocrity is mostly rewarded over hard work. People go to work to sit and watch television and yet are paid at the end of the month, these and many more are the challenges we face as a country when it comes to productivity and rewards. 

If it must be done, then it must be done well. A well strategize and consolidated research fund needs to be instigated. From this, lecturers and teachers who take it upon themselves to undertake research activities could solicit from the pool if found worthy.

We can not close our eyes on what stares our face boldly. Many could attest as to whether all lecturers do undertake research activities. Yet they all crave for the allowance including some undeserving ghost ones. Yesterday we heard POTAG has agreed to call off their over 3 months protracted strike after meeting the stakeholders, that is certainly a good news and I wish that it doesn't become a nine day wonder and further wish UTAG will do same.

I further recommend the government come to an amicable compromise with both parties as far as consensus remains the ultimate yardstick in order to find a lasting solution to these labour agitations in order not to continuously make the students of this country sacrificial lamps. In all, the plight of students must not be taken for granted. I must be quick to add that some faithful lectures deserve this allowance, for some too, nature will tell!

Society suffers not because of the actions and doings of the wicked, but the silence of the wise. 

It's OUR Call to Duty, the Time is NOW or NEVER!

Prosper Dzitse ( 2014 NUGS President hopeful)