Sahara Education Development Initiative has said the last eight-month by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) caused serious damage to the education sector.
The group however commended the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, SAN, for stemming the strike.
The registered non-profit organization in the education sector, consisting of seasoned scholars and critical minds, commended the Minister “for the outstanding performance observed in Nigeria’s education sector under your leadership as the Minister of Education of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
Prince Arthur Nwakanma, Executive Director of the initiative said, “In our periodic assessments based on cutting edge research and UNESCO key performance index of the education sector in selected African countries, including Nigeria, our team of experts and stakeholders has noted significant achievements within a remarkably short period since your appointment.
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“The challenges and disharmony that plagued the education sector, exemplified by the eight-month strike of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) during the previous administration, caused serious damage and setbacks. However, your leadership has effectively changed the narrative with your renewed hope mantra and visionary strategic plans for education in Nigeria.
“Your extensive background and experience in academia, both administratively and in management, make your appointment by His Excellency, President Hammed Bola Tinubu, a fitting choice, demonstrating a perfect alignment of skills and responsibilities.
“We are particularly impressed by your firm commitments to key policy measures aimed at advancing the education sector’s role in national growth and development. Your initiatives include increased investment in the sector, enhanced transparency and accountability in service delivery, incentives to promote higher education, and prioritization of enrolling out-of-school children. Your progressive leadership, strategic thinking, and engagement with critical stakeholders reflect a genuine dedication to realizing these objectives.
“Your active participation in negotiations with ASUU and the Federal Government to address issues related to the welfare of university teachers, salary increases, university autonomy, and academic freedoms is commendable.
“This commitment aligns with the President’s vision to eliminate industrial crises in the sector, and the fruitful discussions thus far, including the gradual clearance of salary backlogs and the removal of universities and polytechnics from IPPIS, indicate significant progress and stability in tertiary institutions.
“We applaud your efforts to revitalize the education ministry’s role in shaping the future of youths and the knowledge industry in Nigeria. With your leadership, we anticipate a future marked by industrial peace, harmony, and progress in the educational sector.
“We extend our best wishes for your continued service to the ministry and the nation.”
