By Abdullahi Yusuf
The Kano Zone of the Academic Staff Union of Nigerian Universities(ASUU-KANO ZONE) has rejected the planned abolishing of certain courses in public universities considered “irrelevant” by the Federal Government.
The Kano Zonal Coordinator of the union, Comrade AbdulKadir Muhammad, announced the rejection while addressing a press conference at the old Campus of Bayero University,Kano(BUK),on Wednesday.
“ASUU is disappointed with the recent announcement that the government intends to abolish certain courses in public universities considered ‘irrelevant.’
“According to reports,the Minister erroneously believes that the mass production of graduates in social sciences and humanities contributes to unemployment and youth restiveness in the country.
“He further maintains that the proposed removal of such programmes forms part of a broader strategy to align Nigeria’s education system with labour market demands, global standards, and emerging trends in research, innovation, and development.
“ASUU rejects this unfounded reasoning and insists that every university discipline possesses practical value both for individuals and the society,” Comrade Muhammad said.
The union further argued that attributing mass unemployment to the study of particular academic disciplines is an oversimplification of a much deeper economic and governance problem in the country.
“Although global priorities may increasingly emphasize science and technology, Nigeria can learn from countries that have effectively addressed youth unemployment through multi-talented youth development initiatives linked to productive economic opportunities,” it added.
ASUU then decried what it called the worsening security situation in the country which it observed,has created ” a climate of fear, uncertainty, hopelessness and despair.”
It urged governments at all levels to fulfil their constitutional responsibilities of protecting lives and property, “while taking decisive action to restore peace, economic justice and national stability