FGN urges ASUU to shelve strike. The Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) has reaffirmed its commitment to dialogue and called on ASUU to shelve its planned strike, emphasizing sustainable engagement and improved welfare for university lecturers.

The Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to peaceful dialogue and appealed to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to reconsider its decision to embark on an industrial strike. According to the government, the call is driven by the desire to protect the academic future of Nigerian students and promote sustainable reforms in the nation’s tertiary education system.

In a joint statement released by the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, and the Honourable Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmad, the FGN urges ASUU to shelve strike action and embrace dialogue as the most viable path to resolving outstanding issues affecting public universities.

The Ministers disclosed that the Federal Government has presented a comprehensive offer addressing ASUU’s major concerns, including lecturers’ welfare, improved working conditions, and transparent institutional governance. They stated that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has approved a robust Teaching Allowance to motivate academic staff and reflect the true value of their intellectual contributions to national development.

“All matters relating to the review of conditions of service have been duly addressed, except those within the jurisdiction of individual university governing councils, which are being actively handled,” the statement noted. “The Federal Government remains open and committed to continued engagement with ASUU once their formal response to the offer is received.”

The Ministers further emphasized that FGN urges ASUU to shelve strike action in the interest of national progress, stating that the government has demonstrated sincerity through proactive policy actions and increased funding for the education sector. Despite these efforts, they noted, the union appears determined to proceed with industrial action even while dialogue remains open.

Reiterating President Tinubu’s commitment to the stability of Nigerian universities, the Ministers stressed that ongoing reforms in the education sector are built on fairness, accountability, and institutional strengthening. They assured that the government’s focus remains the welfare of lecturers and the uninterrupted progress of academic programmes across the country.

While reaffirming the administration’s respect for university autonomy, the statement clarified that some aspects of ASUU’s demands – especially those concerning internal governance, appointments, and promotions -fall within the statutory responsibilities of university governing councils. Therefore, such matters should be handled at the institutional level in line with established rules.

The Ministers also reminded ASUU of the existing “No Work, No Pay” policy, which is a valid provision under Nigerian labour law. They cautioned that the Federal Government will not hesitate to invoke it if the union proceeds with a strike, as disruption of academic activities undermines the integrity of the university system and the rights of students.

“While government remains committed to peaceful dialogue, it will equally enforce existing laws to safeguard the integrity of our education system and ensure accountability,” the statement added.

The FGN urges ASUU to shelve strike not only to maintain industrial harmony but also to consolidate recent gains in education reforms, infrastructure renewal, and staff welfare enhancement. The Ministers assured Nigerians that the government’s consistent policy interventions – such as increased budgetary allocation to education, teacher training initiatives, and institutional revitalization programmes – are evidence of genuine commitment to the sector.

“The government has shown sincerity and commitment through engagements and policy actions. We are confident that, with continued dialogue, every legitimate concern can be addressed and resolved without shutting down our campuses. Our students must remain in school,” the Ministers affirmed.

They concluded by stressing that the FGN urges ASUU to shelve strike for the sake of Nigeria’s children and the long-term stability of its universities. “The future of our students must take priority over disputes,” they stated. “The Federal Government remains open to constructive discussion and ready to work with ASUU to consolidate achievements already made in staff welfare, infrastructure, and institutional reforms.”

The Ministers reiterated that President Tinubu’s administration will continue to engage in constructive partnership with all education stakeholders, ensuring that universities function as true centres of excellence and innovation. GMTNewsng

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● Stephanie Daberechukwu

Mmesoma Okonkwo from Anambra State outperforms thousands of international candidates in the 2023 Cambridge International Examination, highlighting Nigeria’s rising academic stars.

In a stunning academic feat that has drawn international acclaim, 17-year-old Mmesoma Okonkwo from Anambra State, Southeast Nigeria, has been named the Overall Best in English Language in the 2023 Cambridge International Examination. The recognition places her at the very top among thousands of candidates from around the world who sat for the globally recognized assessment.

A student of Chrisland High School, Victoria Garden City, Lagos, Mmesoma served as Head Girl of the 2023 graduating class and consistently distinguished herself through academic excellence and leadership. Her Cambridge achievement is the latest in a series of remarkable milestones that have defined her secondary school journey.

In addition to her global success in English, Mmesoma earned A1 grades in all nine subjects in the 2023 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WAEC). This rare accomplishment underscores her all-round brilliance and the quality of education she received.

Teachers, peers, and educational leaders have described Mmesoma as focused, self-driven, and a natural leader. She received numerous awards throughout her school years, and her performance has become a symbol of the untapped intellectual potential within Nigeria’s youth.

Her success story is being celebrated not just as a personal triumph, but as a powerful example of Nigeria’s growing brain gain – the cultivation of homegrown talent that competes and triumphs on the global stage. It also puts a spotlight on Southeast Nigeria as a region producing world-class achievers.

Mmesoma has expressed a desire to study Business Administration at the tertiary level, aiming to combine her academic strength with leadership in enterprise and innovation. Those close to her say she is poised to make meaningful contributions in both local and international arenas.

The news of her achievement has sparked widespread celebration across Nigeria and beyond, with government officials, educators, and citizens hailing her as a national asset and role model for young students across the continent.

From Anambra to the world, Mmesoma Okonkwo’s academic journey reflects the brilliance and promise of a new generation – one that is not only prepared to meet global standards but to set them. GMTNewsng

● Chelsea Chinenye

In a heartwarming gesture of hope and transformation, Yes to Literacy (Y2L), a non-governmental organization dedicated to empowering the African child, has brightened the future of 29 students at Ozalla High School, Ozalla, Nkanu West LGA of Enugu State. Through its Back2School Initiative, the organization awarded scholarships that covered a full session’s school fees for the beneficiaries. Four senior secondary school students in SS3 also had their WAEC and NECO examination fees fully paid, removing significant barriers to their academic advancement.

Speaking on the development, the Principal of Ozalla High School, Comrade Simeon Akaeme, expressed his heartfelt gratitude, describing the initiative as an inspiring display of God’s grace. “To God be all the glory. I am so excited and encouraged by what Y2L has done. My advice to the students who won is to stay focused and continue excelling. For those who didn’t win, I urge them not to lose hope as their turn could come next time,” he said.

The initiative is part of Y2L’s broader mission to bridge the educational gap between privileged and underprivileged communities. Founded to invest in the intellectual, emotional, and behavioral development of African children, Y2L provides access to quality learning resources, creates conducive environments for education, and promotes lifelong learning to prepare children for a better future. The organization also prioritizes teacher development to enhance educational outcomes.

Comrade Simeon Akaeme, Principal of Ozalla High School (middle) flanked on both sides by his students

Mrs. Chigoziem Ubachukwu, Founder of Y2L, explained the inspiration behind the Back2School Initiative. “We cannot turn a blind eye to the struggles faced by children in underserved communities. Every child deserves a chance to dream, learn, and achieve. Through this initiative, we aim to ensure that no child is left behind, one scholarship at a time,” she said.

The program began with a call for applications at Ozalla High School, where students in need of support were invited to write letters to potential sponsors explaining their aspirations. According to Miss Amara Onyeji, Y2L’s Chief Operating Officer, “The response from the students was overwhelming. It showed us just how many lives we could touch with this project, and we are grateful to everyone who supported us in making this possible.”

Despite challenges with funding, Y2L secured scholarships for all 29 applicants through a focused social media campaign. Miss Chisom Orie, Y2L’s Communications Champion, added, “Sharing the children’s letters anonymously allowed us to connect their stories with compassionate individuals. Their generosity has truly transformed lives.”

The success of the program has brought renewed hope to students and their families. One beneficiary, a senior secondary school student, remarked, “This scholarship means everything to me. It’s the push I need to keep striving for a better future.” Parents have also expressed their appreciation, highlighting the relief and hope the initiative has brought to their households.

R-L: Miss Amara Onyeji – Chief Operating Officer, Y2L; Mrs Chigoziem Ubachukwu – Founder, Y2L; Miss Chisom Orie – Communications Champion, Y2L; and Comrade Simeon Akaeme, Principal of Ozalla High School.

Y2L’s unwavering dedication to literacy and education is transforming lives, one scholarship at a time. By ensuring that no child is left behind, the organization is making a resounding statement that the future of Africa lies in the hands of educated and empowered children. GMTNewsng

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