The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) stated that sustainable investment and adequate funding of public universities are the only paths to permanently ending frequent industrial strikes and significantly improving the global ranking of Nigerian universities.
Context of the Statement
The statement was made by the ASUU President, Professor Chris Piwuna, during an appearance before the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund at the National Assembly, amidst the union’s current two-week warning strike.
Core Demands Linked to Funding
ASUU views proper funding as the lynchpin for addressing its long-standing demands, which include:
- Sustainable Funding: Ensuring consistent and significant allocation of funds to public universities.
- Revitalization of Public Universities: Utilizing funds to upgrade decayed infrastructure, equip laboratories, and procure modern learning resources.
- Improved Conditions of Service: Enhancing the welfare, salaries, and allowances of academic staff to motivate them and curb the severe issue of “brain drain” (mass resignation of professors).
- Academic Autonomy: Protecting the independence of universities from undue political interference.
Challenge to the Government
Prof. Piwuna directly challenged the Senate to facilitate a proper investment, stating: “Try us. Push government to fund universities adequately and you’ll see the end of strikes and the improvement of our universities in global rankings.”
He also highlighted a current funding delay, noting that of the ₦150 billion approved by the National Assembly for universities, only ₦50 billion has been released so far, and the union is seeking to ensure those funds are used specifically for universities as intended.
