The Academic Staff Union of Nigerian Universities (ASUU) has firmly rejected the Federal Government's proposed abolition of certain courses in public universities, which the government considers 'irrelevant.'
ASUU's Official Stance
The Geographic Reference Zonal Coordinator of the union for Kano Zone, Comrade AbdulKadir Muhammad, announced the rejection during a press conference at the old campus of Bayero University, Kano (BUK) on Wednesday.
'ASUU is disappointed with the recent announcement that the government intends to abolish certain courses in public universities considered irrelevant. According to reports, the Minister erroneously believes that the mass production of graduates in social sciences and humanities contributes to unemployment and youth restiveness in the country,' Muhammad stated.
He further noted that the Minister maintains the proposed removal of such programs is part of a broader strategy to align Nigeria's education system with labour market demands, global standards, and emerging trends in research, innovation, and development. 'ASUU rejects this unfounded reasoning and insists that every university discipline possesses practical value both for individuals and society,' Muhammad added.
Deeper Economic and Governance Issues
The union argued that attributing mass unemployment to the study of particular academic disciplines is an oversimplification of a much deeper economic and governance problem in the country. 'Although global priorities may increasingly emphasize science and technology, Nigeria can learn from countries that have effectively addressed youth unemployment through multi-talented youth development initiatives linked to productive economic opportunities,' the union stated.
ASUU also decried the worsening security situation in the country, which it observed has created 'a climate of fear, uncertainty, hopelessness and despair.' It urged all levels of government to fulfill their constitutional responsibilities of protecting lives and property, while taking decisive action to restore peace, economic justice, and national stability.
