Experts speak what should fg do to end the spate of asuu strikes
A very timely and relevant question! Here are some expert opinions on what the Federal Government (FG) can do to end the spate of ASUU strikes:
1. Increase Funding for Education: Dr. Abdullahi Baffa, a former ASUU President, suggests that FG should increase its allocation to the education sector to at least 26% of the national budget, as recommended by the UNESCO. This would enable universities to have sufficient funds to meet their needs and reduce the reliance on government subventions.
2. Implement the 2009 Agreement: Prof. Biodun Olaniran, a former ASUU Vice President, emphasizes the need for FG to implement the 2009 agreement, which includes the payment of earned academic allowances, promotion arrears, and the revitalization of the university system.
3. Address the Issue of Staff Welfare: Dr. Nimi Briggs, a former ASUU President, recommends that FG should address the welfare of university staff, including the payment of salaries, allowances, and pensions, to reduce the stress and frustration that often lead to strikes.
4. Revitalize the University System: Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, the President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), suggests that FG should revitalize the university system by providing adequate infrastructure, equipment, and resources to enable universities to function effectively.
5. Establish a Special Intervention Fund: Dr. Suleiman Bogoro, a former Executive Secretary of the TETFund, recommends that FG should establish a special intervention fund to support universities in addressing their financial challenges and meeting their needs.
6. Strengthen the University Governing Councils: Prof. Olufemi Bamiro, a former ASUU President, suggests that FG should strengthen the university governing councils to enable them to effectively manage the universities and make decisions that benefit the institutions and the nation.
7. Implement the Needs Assessment Report: Dr. Baffa recommends that FG should implement the needs assessment report of the universities, which would help to identify the specific needs of each institution and provide targeted support.
8. Engage in Meaningful Dialogue: Prof. Oloyede emphasizes the need for FG to engage in meaningful dialogue with ASUU and other stakeholders to address the issues that lead to strikes and find lasting solutions.
9. Provide Adequate Security: Dr. Briggs recommends that FG should provide adequate security for university staff and students to ensure that they can work and study in a safe and conducive environment.
10. Review the University Funding Formula: Prof. Bamiro suggests that FG should review the university funding formula to ensure that it is fair, transparent, and equitable, and that it takes into account the specific needs of each institution.
These are just a few of the expert opinions on what FG can do to end the spate of ASUU strikes. It is clear that a multi-faceted approach is needed to address the complex issues facing the university system in Nigeria.