The Chairman, Academic Staff Union of Universities, University of Ibadan, Professor Ayoola Akinwole, has said the federal and state governments must resolve the conflicts between the Nigerian government, the working masses, and Nigerian students in the university system.
He noted that the government needs to “resolve these conflicts by addressing the concerns of all three groups, and prioritizing the development of Nigeria’s education sector.”
Professor Akinwole stated this while presenting the 556th inaugural lecture entitled “Aquaculture Engineering: Reconciling the balance in the triad of fish, plants and man” at the University of Ibadan.
According to him, the conflict stems from “insufficient allocation of resources to education, leading to inadequate infrastructure, poor facilities, and outdated curricula. Allegations of corruption and mismanagement of funds within the education sector. Increment in tuition fees, making education unaffordable for many students. Poor living conditions in hostels and academic buildings, inadequate healthcare, and lack of support services for students. Workers’ Rights and Benefits: Disputes over workers’ rights, salaries, and benefits, leading to strikes by academic and non-academic staff. Deterioration of university infrastructure, affecting teaching and learning conditions. Government interference in university affairs, appointments, and policies. Controversial inconsistent policies lead to high unemployment rates among graduates, causing frustration and discontent.”
He stated that ASUU and her members continue to display “uncommon courage and resilience to look straight into the eyes of oppressors both at local (individual University branches) and National (Federal and State government) levels and speak truth to them without minding whose ox are gored”
He then canvased for “integrating engineering solutions with biological systems to optimise aquaculture practices.”
While noting that urban aquaculture is crucial for food security, job creation, and income generation, Professor Akinwole urged “governments at all levels to promote it through public awareness and community education, targeting specialised markets for commercial success and environmental awareness.”
The government, as a matter of policy, should implement best management practices (BMPs) in all agriculture, aquaculture, and food production facilities, ensuring minimal environmental impact and effective farming operations while minimising negative impacts on human, animal, and plant health.
“Investors in recirculating fish production systems should seek scientific and technical support for site-specific design and component fabrication, avoiding overcapitalisation or premature facility expansion. A cooperative or community management approach for small-scale aquaponics and integrated aquaculture systems. This approach improves the technology’s suitability for local production and reduces barriers to entry by increasing access to human capital, thereby lowering individual labour and educational requirements for operation.”
