CONUA Demands Urgent Reforms in Nigeria's University System

As Nigeria celebrates its 66th Independence Anniversary, the Congress of University Academics (CONUA) has urged for urgent reforms in the university education system. Dr ‘Niyi Sunmonu, the National President of CONUA, stated that despite the increase in the number of universities, the quality of education has not improved, remaining below acceptable standards.

He noted that Nigerian universities once competed favorably with global institutions in the 1970s but have since declined. Sunmonu emphasized the need for sustainable funding, adequate facilities, and improved research capacity to enhance educational quality.

He also called for rebuilding confidence in industrial relations within the university system, advocating for fair engagement platforms for all registered unions. Additionally, he highlighted the issue of withheld salaries from CONUA members due to a previous industrial dispute, stressing that workers should not suffer for actions they did not partake in.

CONUA further called for increased investment in research and innovation through better funding and partnerships.