ASUU criticizes federal and state governments for politicizing education, likening universities to constituency projects. Issues include inadequate funding, salary delays despite workload coverage during strikes, and unresolved disputes leading to threats of strikes in seven universities. ASUU calls for government sincerity in addressing educational challenges to improve academic conditions nationwide.
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has launched scathing criticism against both federal and state governments, accusing them of politicizing education at the expense of academic integrity and quality.
Dr. Melemi Abatcha, chairperson of ASUU at the Federal University Gashua branch in Yobe State, voiced these concerns during a press conference in Damaturu. Abatcha emphasized how governments, particularly at the state level, have treated university education akin to constituency projects brought back by politicians. He pointed out that this trend is evident in the establishment of new universities without commensurate funding for existing ones, which continues to undermine the quality of education.
ASUU highlighted ongoing issues such as the inadequate funding of universities and the persistent challenges faced by academic staff, despite assurances and promises from the federal government. Abatcha cited unmet promises from 2023, including the allocation of N50 billion for Earned Academic Allowances (EAA) backlog and integration into salaries, which remain unfulfilled. He lamented that lecturers who diligently fulfill their roles during strikes still face salary delays and other hardships.
