Nigerian University System Sees Improved Academic Calm Thanks to CONUA Efforts, Says President

The Congress of University Academics has bolstered stability in Nigeria's university system since 2023 by championing uninterrupted academic activities and constructive engagement, according to the organization.

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CONUA President, Prof. Niyi Sumonu, made this assertion during an exclusive interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday in Abuja, highlighting the union's role in promoting industrial harmony.

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As an Associate Professor of Physics and Engineering at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Sumonu noted that the union has consistently promoted industrial harmony across public universities despite being officially recognized only in 2023.

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One of CONUA's significant achievements, Sumonu pointed out, is its sustained advocacy for an uninterrupted academic calendar in Nigerian universities, which has contributed to addressing challenges in the university system.

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The presence of multiple academic unions has enriched discussions and expanded solutions to issues affecting higher education, Sumonu observed, adding that pluralism in unionism brings diverse ideas and solutions to problems.

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He emphasized that CONUA's presence has added to the voices seeking to address issues in the academic environment, fostering a more collaborative approach to problem-solving.

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Sumonu also stated that the union has continued to advocate for improved welfare packages for academic staff without undermining the university system, following discussions surrounding the renegotiation of the 2009 agreement between the Federal Government and university unions.

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CONUA should be recognized as a distinct party in the renegotiation, Sumonu argued, given that it came into existence after the 2009 agreement, and the union has already concluded discussions with the Federal Government, awaiting the signing of a draft agreement.

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According to Sumonu, the union had discussions with the government based on the 2009 agreement, resulting in a draft waiting for signing, which marks a significant step forward in addressing the welfare concerns of academic staff.

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Regarding brain drain, Sumonu described the increasing migration of Nigerian academics abroad as evidence of persistent challenges within the education sector, urging the government to improve working conditions, remuneration, and research facilities to retain experienced academics.

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Sumonu emphasized that universities cannot develop without proper funding, and the government should view education as an investment rather than a business expecting quick gains, highlighting the need for a more sustainable approach to education funding.

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He also advocated for alternative funding sources through stronger partnerships between universities and industry, which would strengthen research, innovation, and reduce dependence on government funding, ultimately benefiting the education sector.

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Achieving an uninterrupted academic calendar requires transparency among the government, university administrators, staff, students, parents, and industry stakeholders, Sumonu stressed, underscoring the importance of collaboration and communication.

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Furthermore, Sumonu advocated for specialized universities with clearly defined areas of excellence to improve quality and global competitiveness, noting that universities should be known for specific areas of specialization to enhance their reputation and impact.

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The CONUA president urged the Federal Government to pursue a long-term vision for university education through consistent and sustainable policies, warning that frequent policy changes have negatively affected the growth and development of Nigeria's education sector.

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Sumonu emphasized that sustainable reforms require continuity, proper implementation, and commitment by successive administrations, highlighting the need for a more cohesive and long-term approach to education policy-making.

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Additionally, Sumonu appealed for the payment of outstanding entitlements owed to university workers, urging the Federal Government to sustain reforms aimed at improving the quality and global competitiveness of Nigerian universities.