The union disclosed that numerous departments and units
across Nigeria’s public universities are grappling with significant staff
shortages due to the departure of lecturers. ASUU firmly rejects the proposed
student loans scheme as a solution to the crisis.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Government has announced plans to
host the 67th edition of the meeting of the National Council on Education
(NCE).
In an exclusive interview with ARISE News, Minister Sununu
reflected on his tenure and shed light on the administration’s Renewed Hope
Agenda for education. He emphasised the importance of addressing various issues
in the education sector through a comprehensive roadmap. The roadmap, developed
by a team of eight members within an eight-week timeframe, comprises 13
thematic areas targeting challenges in basic education, out-of-school children,
infrastructure, and tertiary education.
Dr. Sununu acknowledged the challenge of inaccurate data in
Nigeria, citing discrepancies in counts of out-of-school children by UNESCO and
the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBE).
The ministry is working with a baseline of 13.5 million
out-of-school children and collaborating with organisations to address factors
contributing to school dropout rates.
Responding to the issue of mass resignations, Dr. Sununu
acknowledged the severity of the brain drain, exacerbated by the impact of
COVID-19. He stressed that the government is actively engaging in post-COVID-19
crisis management, with a commitment to initiating dialogues with
education-related unions and associations.
He recognized the urgency of addressing the brain drain
crisis and emphasised the government’s commitment to bringing new hope to the
average Nigerian through policy reforms stating
We agree that salaries need to be reviewed. Our immediate
action upon assuming office was the formulation of a new salary structure, and
presently, we are engaged in negotiations with the Federal Ministry of Finance
to facilitate its implementation. While we do not claim that this will address
all concerns, it signifies the government’s impact, sensitivity, and
responsiveness. We are attuned to the hardships faced by our citizens, and
steps are being taken to bring relief.”
On the contentious topic of student loans, He stated, “We
are in a democratic setting that allows freedom of expression and also the
government to be responsive and listen to what the general public is saying. If
you ask what I want, I will tell you that what is currently ongoing fits what I
want.”
Minister Sununu expressed support for the ongoing
initiatives, assuring the public that grants and loans are being made available
to students. He added, “I assure you that all will be done to assure you that
students have ease of access in getting the student loans.”
As Nigeria grapples with the challenges facing its education
sector, the dialogue between the government and stakeholders becomes crucial in
shaping the future of the nation’s academic landscape.
Kiki Garba
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
0 comments:
Post a Comment