By Eji Mercy Suleiman
University of Jos students are reacting to the recent announcement of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to join the nationwide strike declared by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC). The ASUU circular, released on Monday 13th of November, directed its members to suspend all activities in solidarity with the NLC strike action to protect the interests of Nigerian workers and the country’s leadership.
Students of the institution have expressed mixed feelings towards the strike, with some hoping that the issue will be resolved quickly. Speaking on the situation, Faith Akogu, a 400-level student of Religion and Philosophy, expressed her concern about the delays experienced by students due to incessant strikes. She pleaded that the strike be called off as soon as possible so that she could graduate on time.
Temi Adisa, a 400-level Nursing student, expressed her dissatisfaction with the timing of the strike, stressing that the ASUU should have allowed students to finish their exams before going on strike. She, however, stated that she would use the strike period to prepare for her exams.
Ogri Alice, a 300-level Mass Communication student, expressed her discontent and urged the government to get involved and make sure that the strike was called off quickly. She stated that the federal government should be more concerned about resolving the situation, as a nationwide strike like this will adversely affect the productivity of the nation.
On the other hand, some students are happy about the news of the strike, as they see it as an opportunity to take a break from the rigours of academic activities. Grace Koheyan, a 400-level Nursing student, expressed her joy and hoped that the strike would not exceed this month.
The labour unions and the government have been at loggerheads over the removal of fuel subsidies and the high rate of difficulties being experienced by workers, leading to previous strike actions. The NLC is also concerned about protecting the interests of its members, thereby protesting and speaking out for their manhandled member, Joe Ajaero, in Imo State.
All eyes are now on the government to find a resolution to the issue as soon as possible, as the strike may affect the upcoming examinations of the University of Jos scheduled for 4th December 2023.
This is not right,this is injustice,why is it that Nigeria is at the back in every activity of progress?you guys sent your children to school in abroad and you are here going for strike.its the duty of the government to provide education to the people in it’s society,we as citizens has the right to education so what’s all this for???.