The University of Ilorin has said its male staff members will now enjoy paternity leave.
This was made known by the university’s registrar, Mr. Mansur Alfanla, on Monday while addressing newsmen.
Paternity leave is an essential component of family-friendly workplace policies, fostering a culture that acknowledges and values the role of fathers in the lives of their children. Traditionally, maternity leave has been a well-established practice, allowing new mothers the necessary time to recover from childbirth and bond with their newborns. However, the recognition of the crucial role fathers play in childcare and family life has led to a growing demand for paternity leave.
By offering paternity leave, UNILORIN not only embraces a more egalitarian approach to family responsibilities but also supports the well-being of both parents during the critical early days of a child’s life. Research consistently highlights the positive impact of involved fathers on child development, making paternity leave a vital component in promoting holistic family support.
The approval of paternity leave by UNILORIN is a significant step towards addressing the work-life balance of its employees. Balancing professional responsibilities with family life has long been a challenge for working parents. Paternity leave provides male staff members with the opportunity to actively participate in the care of their newborns without compromising their career commitments.
This move not only supports the mental and emotional well-being of fathers but also contributes to a workplace culture that values the diverse responsibilities of its employees. As the modern workforce evolves, organizations that recognize and adapt to the changing needs of their employees are better positioned to attract and retain top talent.
Mr. Mansur Alfanla noted that the development followed the just amended Conditions of Service of the varsity as part of the ways to improve the varsity’s working conditions.
According to him, the leave lasts for 14 working days for male officers whose partner delivers a baby.
”Paternity leave is for serving male officers whose spouse delivers a baby. The period of the leave shall be 14 working days.
“Where the family of a male officer adopts a child under four months old, the officer will similarly enjoy paternity leave for a period of 14 working days,” Alfanla said.
