By ACJ UNIBEN
On 28th June 2024, the leadership of the National Association of University Students (NAUS) Edo State Campus Monitoring Committee (CMC) engaged in a fruitful dialogue with the Executive Members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at the University of Benin. The delegation from NAUS, warmly received by ASUU Chairman Dr Ray Chikogu, Vice Chairman, Secretary, and other Executive Members, marked a significant step towards strengthening the relationship between students and lecturers.
In his address, NAUS Chairman Comrade Osahon Destiny Eseosa expressed deep appreciation for ASUU’s dedication to enhancing the intellectual capacities of university students and uplifting educational standards. He commended ASUU for its disciplined and selfless commitment to the betterment of the university community.
Comrade Eseosa highlighted several critical issues that necessitated the visit. He pointed out the deteriorating relationship between students and lecturers, stemming from instances of victimisation, sexual harassment, and extortion. These issues have created a climate of fear, deterring students from seeking academic assistance and fostering a disconnection between them and their lecturers.
He emphasised the need for a revitalised “mentor-mentee” relationship within the university. In the past, lecturers mentored students in leadership, unionism, politics, and business enterprises. This mentorship included practical experiences such as accompanying lecturers to seminars and programmes. Comrade Eseosa called for the reactivation and cultivation of these mentorship practices to benefit the current student community.
Addressing the affordability and accessibility of learning materials, the NAUS Chairman advocated for reasonably priced educational resources and greater access to lecturers’ modern libraries. While NAUS is not against the sale of materials, it insists that prices must be reasonable for students.
He urged ASUU to involve students in research grants. He believes that involving students in research activities would provide them with valuable experience in researching, writing, and applying for grants, helping students manage their expenses.
To rebuild and realign student-lecturer relationships, Comrade Eseosa recommended increased student involvement in ASUU social activities and also the encouragement of student competitions by lecturers, such as debates, to foster a more inclusive academic environment. He believes that such activities would foster a more collaborative and engaging university environment.
Additionally, he highlighted the need for scholarships for financially struggling students and job opportunities for recent graduates.
In response, ASUU Chairman Dr Ray Chikogu acknowledged the concerns raised by NAUS and reiterated the union’s stance against sexual harassment, victimisation, and extortion. He emphasised that ASUU has a disciplinary committee to address such issues.
Dr Chikogu discussed the challenges faced by lecturers due to inadequate government funding, which limits their capacity to provide extensive mentorship. He noted that lecturers have been receiving the same salary for many years, and this financial strain hampers their ability to offer additional benefits to students.
On the issue of affordability and accessibility of learning materials, Dr Chikogu mentioned that significant efforts have been made. He assured that efforts are being made and certain departments have compiled textbooks to cover specific courses, making them more affordable and accessible for students.
Regarding scholarships, Dr Chikogu stated that the national body recently gave out scholarships to indigenous students—two from each university across the federation—amounting to ₦200,000 each. Additionally, ASUU at the University of Benin is giving out scholarships to six extra students, with its members working towards awarding these students a minimum of ₦100,000 each.
Addressing social activities and employment, Dr Chikogu assured that ASUU is committed to improving these areas. The union will continue to encourage and support social activities, competitions, and initiatives that promote student engagement and development. He also emphasised that ASUU’s efforts to assist recent graduates in finding job opportunities within and outside the campus will be escalated to the management.
This engagement marks a positive step towards addressing the concerns of the university community and fostering a collaborative environment for both students and lecturers. The dialogue between NAUS and ASUU underscores a shared commitment to improving educational experiences and ensuring a supportive academic atmosphere for all.
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