Redeemer’s University Staff Association and Staff Labor Rights

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Policy on the Recognition of Unions and Protection of Labor Rights

Purpose:

Redeemer’s University is fully committed to upholding the labor rights of all staff and faculty, recognizing that the right to organize, engage in collective bargaining, and form unions are fundamental principles enshrined in national and international labor laws. This policy outlines the university’s commitment to protecting these rights, fostering a collaborative and respectful environment where employees are empowered to advocate for their interests without fear of discrimination or retaliation.



Policy Statement:

Redeemer’s University acknowledges and respects the right of all employees, including faculty and staff, to join or form trade unions or other representative organizations to protect and advance their interests. The university is committed to engaging in good faith with any recognized unions or employee groups and ensuring that all staff and faculty are free to exercise their labor rights in a supportive and fair environment.

  1. Freedom of Association and Right to Unionize:
    • Redeemer’s University recognizes the legal right of all employees to freely associate, organize, and join unions of their choice. The university supports the formation and operation of unions in line with Nigerian labor laws and international standards, such as those established by the International Labour Organization (ILO).
    • All employees, including both academic and non-academic staff, are entitled to participate in union activities, including the election of representatives, without any interference or obstruction from the university administration.
  2. Collective Bargaining and Negotiations:
    • The university is committed to recognizing unions or employee representatives for the purpose of collective bargaining. The administration will engage in good faith negotiations with unions on matters relating to wages, working conditions, benefits, and other employment-related issues.
    • Collective bargaining agreements reached between Redeemer’s University and unions will be honored and implemented in a timely and transparent manner. Any modifications to terms and conditions of employment that affect unionized staff will be made through open dialogue with employee representatives.
  3. Protection from Retaliation:
    • No employee will face discrimination, intimidation, or retaliation for exercising their right to join a union, participate in union activities, or engage in collective bargaining. Redeemer’s University is committed to ensuring that union membership or activity does not adversely impact an employee’s career progression, compensation, or treatment within the workplace.
    • Employees are free to participate in union meetings, activities, and the election of representatives without fear of negative consequences.
  4. Respect for Employee Representation:
    • Redeemer’s University values constructive engagement with employee representatives and unions as part of its overall commitment to fostering a positive and collaborative workplace. The university will respect the role of union leaders and representatives, ensuring that they have access to the necessary resources and information required to perform their duties effectively.
  5. Conflict Resolution and Grievance Handling:
    • The university will work closely with unions to establish clear processes for resolving disputes and handling grievances related to labor rights, working conditions, or other employment-related matters. Open communication and collaboration between the university and union representatives will be central to addressing and resolving employee concerns in a timely and fair manner.
    • In cases where formal grievances are raised by union representatives, the university will engage in a structured and transparent process to investigate and resolve the issue in accordance with established procedures.


  6. Commitment to Labor Rights:
    • Compliance with National and International Labor Laws:
      • Redeemer’s University adheres to all relevant Nigerian labor laws and regulations, including the Trade Unions Act and the Labor Act, which protect the rights of employees to form unions and engage in collective bargaining.
      • The university also aligns its labor practices with international labor standards, ensuring that employees are treated fairly and equitably in accordance with ILO Conventions on the right to organize and collectively bargain.
  7. Promotion of Healthy Labor Relations:
    • Compliance with National and International Labor Laws:
      • Redeemer’s University adheres to all relevant Nigerian labor laws and regulations, including the Trade Unions Act and the Labor Act, which protect the rights of employees to form unions and engage in collective bargaining.
      • The university also aligns its labor practices with international labor standards, ensuring that employees are treated fairly and equitably in accordance with ILO Conventions on the right to organize and collectively bargain.


  8. Union Rights and Access:
    • Union Representation in the Workplace:
      • Union representatives are permitted to visit the workplace to meet with members, hold meetings, and address workplace issues. The university will facilitate these visits in a manner that does not disrupt academic or administrative operations, ensuring that union members can fully engage with their representatives.
      • Union leaders and representatives will be provided with adequate facilities, such as meeting spaces, to conduct union-related activities and facilitate open communication with employees.
    • Information Sharing:
      • Redeemer’s University is committed to transparency in its labor relations. The university will share relevant information with unions to support collective bargaining and negotiation processes. This includes providing data on salaries, benefits, working conditions, and any changes to employment policies or procedures that may impact union members.


  9. Support for Employees' Rights to Organize:
    • Encouraging Employee Participation:
      • The university encourages employees to participate in the decision-making processes that impact their working conditions and rights. Union participation is recognized as a valuable means of enhancing employee engagement, fostering transparency, and ensuring that the voice of the workforce is heard.
    • Education and Awareness:
      • Redeemer’s University will provide training and awareness programs to employees and management to ensure a clear understanding of labor rights, union activities, and the university’s commitment to fair labor practices. These programs will emphasize the importance of respectful and productive labor relations.


Conclusion:

Redeemer’s University is deeply committed to upholding labor rights and ensuring that all employees are free to organize, join unions, and engage in collective bargaining. The university’s recognition of unions is part of its broader dedication to creating an equitable, just, and supportive workplace where all staff and faculty are empowered to advocate for their rights. By fostering strong labor relations and supporting employees in their right to unionize, Redeemer’s University ensures that its core values of fairness, integrity, and respect are reflected in its employment practices.

For more information about union rights or to engage in collective bargaining, please contact the Human Resources Department.

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