The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has expressed concern over the increasing number of first-class degrees awarded by private universities, questioning academic standards.
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has raised concerns about the growing number of first-class graduates emerging from private universities in Nigeria.
At an event honoring Prof. Andy Egwunyenga, the outgoing Vice Chancellor of Delta State University (DELSU), ASUU National President Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke cautioned that if public universities adopt similar trends without adequate regulation, it could compromise the integrity of academic accomplishments.
During the ceremony at DELSU’s Abraka campus, Osodeke took a moment to reflect on the overall state of education in Nigeria. He expressed concern that students who graduate from primary and secondary schools with high grades often do not possess sufficient knowledge and skills.
The ASUU president expressed concern about the current “mass exodus” of skilled Nigerian professionals to countries with more favorable working conditions, attributing this trend to systemic failures in education and other sectors. He pointed to instances like building collapses as proof of these institutional shortcomings.
“There was a period when academics experienced a good quality of life,” Osodeke remarked. “The circumstances have now shifted, and it is imperative for unions to intensify their efforts in advocating for fair conditions. ASUU remains committed to promoting justice and equity within academia.”
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Prof. Omotoye Olorode, another member of ASUU, delivered a presentation entitled “New University Curricula (CCMAS): Context and Matters Arising,” in which he criticized the CCMAS for being an instrument of foreign influence aimed at destabilizing Nigeria’s academic structures. He contended that it enforces a system where Africans are confined to serving the agricultural demands of developed countries.
“Nigeria has historically allocated no more than seven percent of its budget to education, which is significantly lower than UNESCO’s recommended 26 percent,” Olorode observed. “This underscores the ongoing stagnation in our education sector.”
The event additionally honored Egwunyenga’s accomplishments as vice chancellor. DELSU ASUU Chairman, Dr. Paul Opone, praised Egwunyenga for his leadership by saying, “Since 2019, the institution faced challenges due to inadequate leadership. Prof. Egwunyenga surpassed both ASUU’s and the university community’s expectations, gaining widespread admiration.”
In his reply, Egwunyenga expressed appreciation for the praise he received, attributing his leadership approach to themes found in Festus Iyayi’s book, *Demons and Monsters*. He emphasized the support he garnered from across Delta State throughout his tenure.
“According to Opone, ‘This marks the first occasion ASUU has honored a DELSU lecturer in such a way. Prof. Egwunyenga genuinely merits this acknowledgement.'”
