ASUU backs Federal Government on later school resumption

By Oluchi Ihediuche

The Academic Staff Union of Universities insisted Nigerian universities will not re-open in the middle of a second wave of the coronavirus pandemic.

The National Universities Commission (NUC) had earlier directed universities to resume academic activities on January 18.

ASUU’s National President, Biodun Ogunyemi, who spoke on a program in National Television said their concerns is on the safety of theyr students and also their members

“Our concern is rooted in the safety of our members,”
“What happens to congested hostels, crowded classrooms? What flexible arrangements are in place? It is a situation of emergency. I’m not sure the Universities can cope.

ASUU President said the necessary infrastructure was not in place for e-learning as many students will not afford the expenses of electronic learning

“We are aware that some universities are putting measures in place, with alternative learning models,” some are even trying blended classes, virtual and physical.

“But these efforts are limited. They get to a point they can’t go further.

“ASUU has been talking about revitalisation since 2012. These are some of the areas where the assistance would have helped. Universities need considerable funds to do this.

“People are saying start virtual classes, but more than 60 per cent of our students will run into trouble – they can’t afford data or smartphones.”