The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Osun State University branch, has highlighted the detrimental role of political greed in the inadequate funding of education in Nigeria.
Following a peaceful protest against the proliferation of universities and the neglect of the union by the federal government, Dr. Olaosebikan Wende, the branch Chairman, addressed the media on the issue. He emphasized that if politicians were to abandon their greed, the federal government could adequately fund education at all levels.
Dr. Wende further stated that ASUU would persist in its efforts to free the country’s education system from colonial neoliberal fundamentalism, highlighting the illegality and unacceptability of dissolving the university governing council.
He expressed, “As a Union of intellectuals, ASUU shall continue with its patriotic struggles to decolonize Nigerian public universities and emancipate them from neoliberal fundamentalism and commercialization.”
The chairman stressed that if political elites were to renounce greed and corruption, address wastages and leakages, and embrace fiscal discipline, the government would have the means to fund education at all levels.
ASUU also expressed dismay over the proliferation of universities by Federal and State Governments without adequate funding for existing institutions, resulting in a decline in the quality of education.
The union’s leadership emphasized that the government’s lack of commitment to resolving these issues has pushed the university system to the brink of collapse.
Led by Ibadan zonal coordinator, Professor Oyemabiji Oyegoke, members of the union embarked on a peaceful protest across the campus, raising awareness about their grievances through various placards.
The current funding crisis in Nigeria’s education system has far-reaching consequences for the quality of education provided to students. ASUU’s call for politicians to prioritize the welfare of the education sector and address the systemic issues plaguing it is an urgent plea for change.
As the nation’s intellectual workforce, ASUU remains unwavering in its commitment to decolonize and revitalize Nigerian public universities. By challenging the prevailing neoliberal approach and advocating for adequate funding, the union strives to ensure a brighter future for students and the education system as a whole.
The ball now lies in the court of the political class, who hold the power to make a lasting impact by prioritizing education over personal gain. It is crucial for the government to heed ASUU’s call, address the funding crisis, and work collaboratively towards a sustainable future for education in Nigeria.
