The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has expressed concern over the growing number of first-class graduates produced annually by private universities in Nigeria.
Speaking at an event honoring Prof. Andy Egwunyenga’s tenure as Vice Chancellor of Delta State University (DELSU) in Abraka, Delta State, ASUU National President Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke cautioned against unregulated practices in public universities.
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He noted that such trends, if mirrored in public institutions, could erode the integrity of academic standards. “Primary and secondary schools today are producing graduates with excellent grades but insufficient knowledge,” Osodeke remarked.
The ASUU leader also highlighted the “mass exodus” of skilled Nigerian professionals to countries with better living and working conditions, linking it to issues like building collapses. He emphasized that ASUU remains committed to addressing injustices and advocating for fairness.
“The struggle for academics to enjoy a decent standard of living once yielded results, but the situation has worsened. The unions must return to the frontline for a renewed struggle,” he added.
Critique of curriculum and underfunding
At the event, ASUU member Prof. Omotoye Olorode criticized the Core Curriculum Minimum Academic Standards (CCMAS) introduced for Nigerian universities. He described it as an imperialistic tool that undermines the country’s academic systems, asserting it perpetuates a dependence on developed nations.
“Nigeria has never allocated more than seven percent of its budget to education, far below UNESCO’s recommendation of 26 percent. This reflects stagnation and a lack of commitment to educational growth,” Olorode said.
Honoring Egwunyenga’s leadership
The event celebrated Prof. Egwunyenga for his leadership at DELSU, with ASUU DELSU Chairman Dr. Paul Opone praising his ability to steer the institution through challenging times.
“This is the first time ASUU has organized such an event to honor a lecturer at DELSU. Prof. Egwunyenga exceeded expectations and deserves the accolades,” Opone said.
Responding, Egwunyenga expressed gratitude for the recognition, revealing that his approach to leadership was inspired by Festus Iyayi’s novel Demons and Monsters.
