Prolonged UNIABUJA ASUU Strike Extends Academic Calendar, Evokes Mixed Reactions from Students

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), University of Abuja chapter, embarked on the strike on May 2, 2024, protesting alleged violations of established laws by the university. An 82-day industrial strike action was implemented and their complaints included appointments and promotions of staff in the absence of a governing council, the illegal advertisement of the Vice-Chancellor position during the administration of Professor Abdulrasheed Na’Alla, and recruitment processes that allegedly bypassed due process.

As a result of the strike, there was a disruption to the university’s academic calendar and the school’s governing council postponed the first semester exams to October 2024.

The subsequent decision to extend the 2023/2024 academic year drew mixed reactions from students. While some expressed disappointment, others saw it as an opportunity to prepare more thoroughly for the upcoming exams.

Students react to semester extension

Kathrine Adah, a 200-level student from the Department of Chemical Engineering, voiced her frustration at how the extension had delayed her academic progress.

“Before our lecturers went on strike, I was excited to start the 1st semester of 300-level in September. But now, because of the strike, the academic calendar has been affected, and the next session won’t begin until January,” she said.

Bzigu Naomi, from the Faculty of Social Sciences, shared concerns about the financial and socio-economic toll the extension was having on students.

“It’s quite exhausting, but at the same time to our advantage. We have spent extra time due to the strike, so it’s only fair the semester is extended. However, it’s impromptu and draining. We budgeted our food for four months, but now we have to buy more supplies,” she explained.

For final-year students, the postponement of exams had a significant impact. David Nlend, a 400-level student of Sociology and Anthropology, noted that while the strike brought about positive change, it altered many students’ graduation plans.

“The outcome of the strike will improve academic achievement, unlike the previous system where it was ‘garbage in, garbage out.’ The congested academic calendar didn’t allow for proper teaching. But now, the delay has affected students who were supposed to sign out by October,” David said.

He also urged students to adjust to the new reality. “Everyone should adjust their plans to fit the new system. It will work out for our own good in the end,” he added.

Student leader supports management’s decision

Bawa Nubuti Peter, a member of the UNIABUJA Students’ Representative Council representing the Faculty of Social Sciences, expressed his approval of the university management’s decision to extend the semester.

“From my point of view, the decision to extend the calendar after the prolonged strike is okay. Since ASUU declared the strike, it’s been an unstable academic session for UNIABUJA students. Classes haven’t been consistent,” Bawa stated.

University management reassures students

In response to the disruption, the acting Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Aisha Sani Maikudi, assured students that the administration remained committed to providing a conducive learning environment.

Through a circular announcing the resumption of full academic activities on Monday, July 29, Professor Maikudi said, “The university administration is dedicated to maintaining a conducive learning environment and will provide all necessary resources to support your academic pursuits.”

She also encouraged students to take advantage of support services such as academic advising, counselling, and other student-centred resources during the extended semester.