Celebration swept across Ondo State on Thursday as retired teachers began receiving payment alerts for refunds of their contributions under the Federal Mortgage Bank Housing Fund Scheme, in what has been described as a historic welfare achievement facilitated by the leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS), Ondo State chapter.
The payments, which commenced on July 2, have been widely applauded by beneficiaries and education stakeholders, many of whom credited the breakthrough to the determination and commitment of the ASUSS State Chairman, Comrade Amuda Tairu Abiola, JP.
Union members described the development as the first of its kind in the history of ASUSS in Ondo State, noting that the successful processing of the Federal Mortgage Bank refunds has brought long-awaited relief to retired teachers who had patiently awaited access to their contributions.
The achievement comes barely two months after Comrade Amuda assumed office, with many members saying the administration has already distinguished itself through a series of welfare-driven initiatives aimed at improving the lives of teachers.
The union also disclosed that the next phase of the housing programme will commence next week with the processing of Federal Mortgage Bank loan applications for teachers still in active service, a move expected to expand access to affordable housing and strengthen the welfare of members.
Teachers across the state have commended the ASUSS leadership for what they described as purposeful, responsive and impactful leadership, expressing optimism that the union will continue to champion policies and programmes that directly improve the welfare of both serving and retired teachers.
