PRESIDENT Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said that the government is determined to intensify efforts to ensure to end industrial disputes and the perennial strikes in Nigerian universities.
At the 17th convocation ceremony of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, (UniZik) Awka, the President, who is the Visitor of the institution, stated that the government was fully aware “of the challenges facing higher education in Nigeria, and we are addressing it strategically and holistically.”
The Director of Tertiary Education, Federal Ministry of Education, Mrs Rakiya Iliyasu, represented the president.
In her speech, Iliyasu stated, “it is the desire of this government that industrial action would be a thing of the past.
“This government is doing everything possible for a better relationship between the unions and government, which can stop such industrial actions.
“University education is capital intensive and government alone cannot take care of it, but all stakeholders must put their hands on deck in this regard.
“I’m happy with TETfund (Tertiary Education Trust Fund). intervention in the university and I urge the university to take ownership of it and also ensure they serve their purpose.
“Concerted efforts are being made to address the infrastructure and human capital deficiencies through TETfund.”
The Vice Chancellor, Prof Charles Esimone, disclosed that the 6,000 students graduated with first degrees, while 3,300 students passed out with post graduate diplomas.
Meanwhile, of the total of 1,407 students who left with higher degrees, 807 passed with Masters degree and 600 with doctorate degrees.
