FUTA ASUU Initiates Protest Citing Federal Government’s Indifference to University Issues

Union Responds to National Directive with Demonstration

In alignment with the nationwide call from its central leadership, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) chapter at the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA) mobilized on August 26 to stage a protest. This action was intended to publicly voice their frustration over the federal government’s persistent disregard for the union’s longstanding demands.

Highlighting the Government’s Neglect of Higher Education

ASUU members at FUTA emphasized that the federal government’s failure to address critical issues affecting universities is both callous and detrimental to the academic sector. The protest underscores the union’s concerns about inadequate funding, poor infrastructure, and the lack of implementation of agreements previously reached with the government.

Contextualizing the Protest Within Nigeria’s Academic Landscape

University staff unions across Nigeria have increasingly resorted to industrial actions in recent years, citing chronic underfunding and neglect. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, public universities in Nigeria have seen a decline in government funding by over 15% in the past five years, exacerbating challenges in maintaining quality education and research standards.

Looking Ahead: The Impact of Continued Government Inaction

Should the federal government persist in overlooking the demands of academic staff, the quality of tertiary education in Nigeria risks further deterioration. This could lead to prolonged strikes, disruption of academic calendars, and a decline in Nigeria’s competitiveness in global education rankings.

Source: Premium Times Nigeria