After a series of failed meetings, our varsity system has been left on its knees and continues to suffer. One wonders, why is it that every common bureaucratic ideal thing or structural issue results in disagreement between ASUU and its employer –government. Remember, a payment platform has once been a source of a strike –the controversial IPPIS.
Just after three days that ASUU suspended its nine-month strike which has caused the education sector especially tertiary institutions a great setback, the FG ordered the suspension of academic activities in Nigerian varsities. This happened like a stillbirth baby after nine months, though, caused by the second wave of ‘general’ Corona.
Nigerian Education sector has been in a deep quandary for the past two decades especially when it comes to the qualitative and sound education system. I once read in a report by the same Adamu who said: “Some graduates can’t write or read in English.” This is worrisome. Then, who cares about this –ASUU or FG? It is not the time for the blame game, please.
What does the ASUU–FG rift means in the rating of Nigerian varsity? Universities have been shut for almost a year now, the students’ interests in learning have been truncated. All these are happening in a certificate oriented country.
Shutting down varsity may not be the best option to go, we are old enough to live with COVID-19 and its guidelines. As a student, my school has been making everyone to follow the COVID-19 protocols. I believe others will do the same. As someone said, “Strive for progress, not perfection.” The development of any country tilts towards the progress and the future of its youths who are now been neglected.
Where is the right to study for the students? After paying all the school fees, tuition payments, and others, a four-year course now takes about six years. How do we expect foreign students? Is there any provision for the right of students to study or learn in Nigeria?
Conclusively, the government of the day should remember that it was enthroned based on two priorities; security and education. They should act decisively and take measures. Remember the sons and daughters of the masses that brought you to power. Some of these children have lost interest or quit studying at all; your negligence caused the country to lose many professionals in different fields. Our representatives, play your role, act, intervene, and do the needful.
Usman Abdullahi Koli, a student of Mass Communication Department, Abubakar Tatari Ali Polytechnic Bauchi.
