It has been four months since Nigerian university students were barred from attending classes by the Academic Staff Union. While not the lengthiest closure enforced by the union, it is among the most severe. I ponder this amidst numerous challenges facing the country: security issues, economic woes, a political climate in turmoil, and more. Yet, nothing seems as detrimental as this ongoing standoff. Even in war-torn nations, universities manage to function; sometimes, they are the sole operational institutions, sustaining operations despite limited government funding. They persevere without ceasing.
In Syria, a university student who relocated to the UAE with his family recounted how students and faculty pooled their resources to fuel generators and keep their university running. Wealthier teachers supported poorer students with fees and books, while affluent students contributed to university maintenance.
Conversely, in Nigeria, it appears as a struggle for power, each side flexing influence without considering the consequences of their actions.
Frustrated, some students have fled to neighboring countries; the wealthy travel even farther to continue their studies. Unfortunately, many may never return to contribute to Nigeria’s development.
It is disheartening that strikes seem the only solution ASUU turns to in addressing its grievances. Nigeria, a nation with abundant resources, should be attracting foreign students. Countries measure economic strength by their international student populations; higher education contributes significantly to GDP in places like Europe and the UK. Nigerian universities do not lack local students, both affluent and needy.
Why doesn’t ASUU explore innovative solutions to chronic underfunding? Why not engage students in a competition to propose solutions? Students, though less experienced, would not suggest strikes as a remedy.
Relying solely on government funding limits ASUU’s options. Even if the government fulfills its promises this year, what about the next? Students who began studies in 2013 might face another strike in 2015. How can strikes resolve these issues when they primarily affect students, with ASUU primarily bargaining for unpaid salaries?
My viewpoint may seem critical of ASUU, but I recognize their plight. They contend with a government indifferent to education, fixated on exports and foreign reserves, and riddled with corruption. Why wait for change from such a government, which only acts when threatened politically? ASUU, as an educated elite, should seek resolutions wisely, not politically. Uneducated individuals resort to violence due to unemployment; how different is withholding education due to underfunding?
One takes up arms; the other abandons their pen. Both paths lead to chaos. If ASUU views universities as vital to society, strikes should never be the only recourse. Teachers, like doctors and police, serve society, not just the government. They shape future generations.
ASUU members are family men and women, with relatives studying at home and abroad. Where is our collective humanity, to consider society’s welfare above all else?
The long-term solution lies beyond government intervention. The society itself must support universities, making them institutions for the people, not merely the government.
Consider this proposal: while education costs remain subsidized, shouldn’t tuition fees reflect household incomes? Charging the same fees to households earning vastly different amounts seems unjust. Wealthier families should pay more, ensuring fairness. Determining this fairly poses challenges, but solutions exist.
Let us introspect before seeking external solutions. Meanwhile, I urge ASUU to end the strike and eschew future strikes.