Education
ASUU, like PENGASAN: And the Unending Trauma of the Nigerian Federal University Students.
ASUU, like PENGASAN: And the Unending Trauma of the Nigerian Federal University Students.
By: Dr. James Bwala
The academic landscape in Nigeria is fraught with challenges that have a profound impact on students’ lives, particularly within the federal university system. Central to this discourse is the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), like the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASAN), both of which serve as pivotal players in the orchestration of educational policies and policies in the oil sector and conditions within their respective domains. The persistent conflicts, strikes, and policies instituted by these unions have created an atmosphere of instability and uncertainty that significantly affects students and Nigerians. The implications of ASUU and PENGASAN on Nigerian federal university students and the nightmares of fuel queues among Nigerians generally have a long history. Exploring the historical context of their formation, the recurrent strikes they undertake, the psychological and academic trauma experienced by students, and the broader consequences on Nigerians and Nigeria’s educational sector is huge.
The inception of ASUU in 1978 arose from the necessity to address the deteriorating conditions of academic staff in Nigerian universities. Established with the aim to advocate for better remuneration and improved working conditions, ASUU became a significant voice for university lecturers’ rights. As a union, it quickly grew to encompass broader issues within the educational sector, including the quest for greater budget allocations and autonomy for federal universities.
Conversely, PENGASAN emerged as a counterpart for oil workers, seeking similar objectives of improved conditions and recognition. Both unions echo decades of systemic neglect characterized by inadequate funding, lack of infrastructure, and insufficient support for research and development in Nigeria’s higher education system as well as the shifts required for the oil workers. They always cried out, directing their actions to what they called the unfulfilled promises by the government. But who is really not making an attempt to shift ground? ASUU or government? Of course those with little or no information about what is going on at the table of meetings will always want to point a finger at the government. The very lie they told you is that ASUU is fighting for the rights of all, and we believed them as carriers of the true message. Always the resultant tensions between educational bodies, the oil sector, and the state have led to numerous strikes, which have become a recurring theme in the academic calendar for the universities and the ugly experiences Nigerians had to deal with wheneverPENGASAN made a move until recently exposed in the case with Dangote.
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We are heading towards another round of strikes again by ASUU despite the efforts of the government under this administration to ensure a soft landing for all Nigerians and particularly students seeking education in federal universities. Strikes instigated by ASUU, like PENGASAN, have become emblematic of the struggles within Nigeria as a nation. Nigeria’s educational sector and the oil sector are areas of discussion amongst citizens recently. The most recent decades have seen these unions engage in strike actions that have spanned from weeks to months, bringing the academic calendar to a standstill and forcing motorists out of the roads as a result. For instance, ASUU’s strike in 2022 lasted over eight months due to grievances surrounding underfunding and the implementation of agreements made with the government. Such prolonged disruptions are not just an inconvenience; they precipitate a cascade of negative effects for students, and the private universities are cashing in on this and strangling parents who had to pay through their nose to see to the education of their children. And this same ASUU, which is benefitting from an extended hand in the private education sector, is looking the other way as parents sweat it to meet the least they must do for their children.
Academically, strikes lead to the elongation of degree programs, compounding the already lengthy process of obtaining a university education in Nigeria. The psychological toll cannot be understated; students face anxiety over their futures, uncertainty concerning job prospects, and the diminished quality of education due to inconsistent attendance and sporadic learning experiences. The change in academic timelines often disrupts students’ plans, resulting in financial strain as many students depend on family support or scholarships that typically have fixed durations. Certainly this bad experience gave birth to a disease we are all experiencing today in the name of violent and cyber crimes, or Yahoo-Yahoo, an education most students get from self-teachings in very dark universities. And this has become a problem for the whole society.
Additionally, the overlap of strikes with an unstable economy means that many students are also grappling with financial insecurity, which necessitates the other way round. With students from lower socio-economic backgrounds affected disproportionately, the impact of these strikes exacerbates existing inequalities in access to quality education, and we are making do with what is at hand—the bad deeds and the resultant returns.
The trauma inflicted upon Nigerian federal university students extends beyond academic interruptions. Students endure a complex web of psychological stressors, manifesting as anxiety, depression, and loss of motivation. The constant uncertainty regarding when or if classes will resume creates an environment rife with frustration and despair. This mental health crisis among students has been acknowledged yet remains largely unaddressed by university administrations and government bodies. The social fabric of university life is disrupted during strikes. Students miss out on critical developmental experiences that occur within a vibrant campus setting—interactions that foster networking, communication skills, and emotional intelligence. Many students feel isolated during these periods, leading to a sense of disconnection from their peers and the academic community. The lack of engagement in academic settings can lead to a culture where students feel disenfranchised and voiceless, further breeding cynicism towards the democratic processes that govern their education.
The continuous cycles of strikes and unrest within the Nigerian federal university system highlight deeper systemic issues. Despite efforts being put in place to reach agreements, ASUU has in most cases been unwilling to shift ground, causing setbacks in every sitting government, and this lack of agreements with ASUU, as with PENGASAN, is indicative of a broader disregard for the importance of education and the future of Nigeria’s youth. This neglect results in a myriad of outcomes that affect not only students but the entire nation.
One significant consequence other than what I mentioned earlier is the brain drain phenomenon. Many qualified individuals, frustrated by the poor educational infrastructure and lack of opportunities domestically, opt to seek education and employment abroad. This exodus of talent diminishes the potential for innovation and economic growth within Nigeria, perpetuating a cycle of dependency on foreign expertise and limiting the country’s ability to develop homegrown solutions to its challenges.
In a competitive global environment, the quality of graduates produced by Nigerian universities is increasingly scrutinized. Disruptions caused by strikes affect the perception of these institutions both locally and internationally. Prospective students may reconsider enrolling in Nigerian universities, leading to a decline in enrollment rates and the subsequent financial crises faced by these institutions. The intersection of ASUU and PENGASAN’s activities with the experiences of Nigerian federal university students paints a stark picture of an educational landscape marred by conflict and instability.
While these unions play crucial roles in advocating for the rights and needs of academic staff and workers in their drives, the consequences of their actions resonate negatively through the lives of students and Nigerians who find themselves caught in the crossfire. The unending trauma experienced by these students—including prolonged academic timelines, psychological distress, and a compromised educational environment—demands urgent attention and reform. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort between the government, educational institutions, and student bodies. It is imperative that stakeholders prioritize dialogue and negotiations that yield tangible improvements in funding, infrastructure, and overall educational policies. Only through concerted efforts can the negative cycles of strikes and trauma be mitigated, paving the way for a more stable, equitable, and empowering educational experience for all Nigerian federal university students.
* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja
ASUU, like PENGASAN: And the Unending Trauma of the Nigerian Federal University Students.
UNIMAID College of Medicine needs about 20 billion for complete overhaul for the future
By: Bodunrin Kayode
Vice Chancellor University of Maiduguri (UNIMAD) Professor Mohammed Mele has said that his University will need not less than 20 billion naira to upgrade the facilities in the College of Medicine which boasts of the allied health science and Basic medical science departments.
He said that after 50 years of producing quality medical practitioners with such limited facilities in the College which were grossly inadequate to take care of more students, it was time to prepare proactively for the future which is already at their door steps.
Professor Mele noted that if the institution must continue to live to the high expectations of the North East of Nigeria and the entire Lake Chad region, there was a need for a massive overhaul and expansion of the facilities on ground to ensure that the institution meets up to expectations of its catchment area.
Prof Mele made these assertions recently during a pre convocation news conference held in the main campus of the institution where he announced that the University was one of the beneficiaries of 4 billion naira grant from TET Fund for the expansion of medical facilities aimed at increasing the enrollment into the highly sort out Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing and Pharmacy departments.
The VC further noted that with the increase in the demand for education in the University, it was high time management plans ahead for the future years paving way for more intakes of students so that the catchment area in need for medical professionals will not suffer acute deficit.
” For now we take only about 150 students for the MBBS programme but we have seen that the current demand is far beyond that figure so this fund will assist us to expand the laboratories where our students train by getting more medical equipment for them to work with while acquiring quality education to take care of the deficit in the region.
” After correcting some of these lapses, it is our intention to double the intakes to about 100 percent so that at least 300 students can be trained for medicine at a time like wise pharmacy and other allied sciences” said Mele.
The VC hinted that the Federal Government has also allocated over N700 million for provision of hostels in the Medical College as well as more funds for the establishment of a Simulation Laboratory adding that these laudable interventions will further strengthen the University’s position as a Centre of Excellence in medical training.
Convocation and Honours
On Saturday’s 25th convocation, the VC further hinted that 20,164 graduates, which is the largest in the history of the institution will receive their certificates.
“These include: 66 PhDs1,020 Master’s Degrees 3,851 Postgraduate Diplomas 13,624 Bachelor’s Degrees 1,699 Diplomas.
“For the Bachelor’s degree, there are: 205 First Class Honours 3,114 Second Class Upper and 9,501 Second Class Lower.” Said the VC.
“We congratulate our graduates for their hard work, resilience and dedication.Golden Jubilee (50th Anniversary)Our Golden Jubilee is a profound celebration of resilience, growth and unwavering purpose.
“From its humble beginnings with just two faculties, the University of Maiduguri has evolved into a vibrant institution comprising 17 faculties, a College of Medical Sciences, a Dynamic college of Postgraduate Studies and 12 specialised research centres.” he maintained
He posited that through years marked by insurgency, economic constraints and even a global pandemic, the University has stood firm as a steadfast symbol of courage, stability and intellectual fortitude for the entire Sahel region.
During this celebration, the VC said that the University will honour three exceptional Nigerians whose contributions to society are exemplary as well as appointment as Professors Emeriti some Professors whose mentorship and service have left an indelible legacy in this University.
University Endowment Fund
To secure the next fifty years and beyond, the VC said that the University has established the UNIMAID Endowment Fund to assist in the development of the campus and all it’s academic activities.
Mele revealed that the fund is expected to serve as an enduring vehicle to strengthen research, expand infrastructure, nurture innovation, support scholarships and ensure long-term financial sustainability.
“We therefore extend an earnest call to our alumni; partners, corporate organisations, philanthropists and all lovers of education to join hands with us in shaping the UNIMAID of the future.” Said Mele.
On recent achievements the VC noted that they have been involved in the renovation and upgrade of over 32 lecture theatres to meet up to the expectations of the next fifty years.
Others include: “Complete refurbishment of toilets and common rooms across 10 halls of residence. Ongoing phased upgrade of staff offices and faculty buildings.Improved street lighting, pavements, walkways and landscaping. Enhanced sanitation through a strengthened Directorate of Sanitation and Landscape. “
Five new middle-aquifer boreholes, approved and funded by the Borno State government, has also been sunk in the campus.
Other areas of achievements include the provision of staff housing, installation of laboratory equipment, scholarships and sponsorships for students and staff, solar-powered boreholes and direct financial assistance.
The State Government, through the Borno State Education trust Fund, also recently constructed and donated a two-storey academic complex comprising classrooms, laboratories, staff rooms and a library to the University Demonstration Secondary School.
“Their investments have significantly strengthened our research capacity, improved teaching and learning, enhanced community service, supported humanitarian initiatives and reinforced resilience programming across the institution.” Said Mele.
UNIMAID College of Medicine needs about 20 billion for complete overhaul for the future
321 companies jostle for UBEC projects in Adamawa
No fewer than 321 companies have tendered their bids for the 2022, 2023 and 2024 Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) Matching Grant projects in Adamawa.
Dr Murtala Babayi, Executive Chairman Adamawa State Universal Basic Education Board (ADSUBEB), disclosed this at the Pre-qualification Technical Bid Opening Ceremony in Yola.
According to him, the event underscored the state government’s commitment to due process, accountability and transparency.
Babayi, however, cautioned the contractors against conniving with any individual at the board to engage in fraudulent documentation.
“We are calling on all of you the biders; you should ensure that you did not follow any route that will involve you into trouble in the near future.
“You should also not try to compromise with our staff by bringing in papers that are not up-to-date. If at any time we discover this we will deal with any perpetrator,” he said.
The chairman listed the projects to include construction of one block of three classrooms with office and veranda, supply of school furniture, drilling of solar-powered boreholes and construction of perimeter fence.
He commended Gov. Ahmadu Fintiri for his timely release of funds and commitment to basic education as a right to every child.
In her remarks, Mrs Rahila Gyndi, the Board’s Director of Procurement, said the bid was in compliance with section 16 of the Procurement Act 2007.
She said the Act stipulated that only contractors with the requisite capacity, resources, and experience were eligible to participate in government procurement processes.
Gyndi assured that the board would soon come up with a list of successful bidders who would qualify for the next stage of the process.
Mr Philip Dawa, who spoke on behalf of the biders, appreciated the board for giving them the opportunity to submit their proposals for consideration.
He assured that successful companies would do a quality work in compliance with the projects’ deadline and specification.
Adamawa, GPE open bid for 14 projects
Adamawa Government with Global Partnership for Education (GPE) has opened a bid for 14 projects to upgrade Mega Science Technical School, Gulak to College of Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Studies (COTIES).
Speaking at the bid opening, in Yola, Hajiya Aisha Umar, the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development, said the government was committed to ensuring due process was followed when contracting projects.
“That’s why we are here today, to at least show the world that we are doing the right thing.
“I’m expecting that the right people will be awarded the contract; those that are here, and those that complied with the rules and regulations,” she said.
Umar said that 45 companies have currently bidded for 15 categories of the projects.
Umar assured that they would observe transparency in selecting those that would do the contract.
In his remarks, Mr Faruq Adamu, Procurement Officer, identified the 14 projects as the construction of electro-mechanical services and perimeter fencing of Hong and Lamurde Mega Science Schools.
The construction of four Block of 80-Room Hostels with Porter’s Lodge, Common Room and toilets each are among the projects.
Others are the Construction of one Block of 4-Bedroom Bungalow with One-Bedroom Boys’ Quarters, and one Block of 3-Bedroom semi-detached Bungalow for Rector and Deputy Residences in Gulak.
Adamu added that fencing of Hong and Lamurde as well as additional Electro-Mechanical Services were among the work to be done.
Responding on behalf of the contractors, Mr Adamu Umar, appreciated the state government for following due process and transparency.
He assured that, as professionals, they would abide by all the guidelines for a successful business
Adamawa, GPE open bid for 14 projects
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