Insufficient Funding the Cause of Poor Infrastructure in Tertiary Institutions – ASUU

Chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, University of Ibadan, Professor Ayoola Akinwole has said that insufficient allocation of resources remains the main reason for the poor infrastructural development in tertiary institutions across the country.

Akinwole said this while delivering the 556th inaugural lecture entitled “Aquaculture Engineering: Reconciling the Balance in The Triad Of Fish, Plants And Man”, at the university.

The ASUU chairman while addressing the gathering, however, promised that the union will continue to fight for the liberation of the education sector.

He said that ASUU members will continue to speak truth to power in the country, noting that the federal and state governments must resolve the conflicts between the Nigerian government, the working masses, and Nigerian students in the university system.

He added that the government needs to resolve the conflicts by addressing the concerns of all three groups, and prioritising the development of Nigeria’s education sector”.

Akinwole also disclosed that undue interference in affairs and appointments by the government is another major problem facing the education sector.

He said, “The conflict stems from “Insufficient allocation of resources to education, leading to inadequate infrastructure, poor facilities, and outdated curricula.

“Allegations of corruption and mismanagement of funds within the education sector. Increment in tuition fees makes education unaffordable for many students.

“Poor living conditions in hostels and academic buildings, inadequate healthcare, and lack of support services for students. Workers’ Rights and Benefits: Disputes over workers’ rights, salaries, and benefits, leading to strikes by academic and non-academic staff. Deterioration of university infrastructure, affecting teaching and learning conditions.

“Government interference in university affairs, appointments, and policies. Controversial inconsistent policies lead to high unemployment rates among graduates, causing frustration and discontent.”