The Congress of University Academics (CONUA) has expressed support for the Federal Government's directive prohibiting universities from using hired lecturers, equipment, and facilities to obtain accreditation. According to CONUA's National President, Dr. Niyi Sunmonu, the integrity of the accreditation process is crucial to the credibility of Nigeria's university system. This move aims to ensure that institutions' accreditation reflects their actual capacity to deliver programs sustainably.
Dr. Sunmonu emphasized that accreditation should not be based on temporary arrangements made for visiting evaluation teams. Instead, it should reflect an institution's verifiable capacity to deliver programs. CONUA urged the government to define sanctions for institutions that violate this directive, including potential suspension, withdrawal, or review of their accreditation. This measure is expected to promote transparency and accountability in the accreditation process.
The union stressed that these standards must apply equally to both public and private institutions. Additionally, CONUA called for legal and regulatory sanctions against academics who lend their credentials to help other institutions fake their capacity. The union made a distinction between legitimate academic collaborations and deliberate fabrication of accreditation capacity. This move aims to promote academic integrity and prevent institutions from resorting to unwholesome practices.
CONUA also emphasized the need for adequate funding to support the new policy. The union urged the federal government to evaluate whether current funding levels allow universities to maintain the required academic staff, laboratories, libraries, and facilities. According to CONUA, quality assurance cannot be achieved without quality funding. The union stressed that universities must be accountable for the resources entrusted to them.
The group noted that the government must match its high expectations with adequate funding. Universities must not resort to artificial means to create capacity, and the government must provide predictable and timely funding. CONUA emphasized that the true test of accreditation lies in an institution's ability to provide the education it claims to offer, and whether the government has adequately funded the institution to sustain those capacities.
To ensure effective implementation, CONUA stressed the need for clear guidelines, defined sanctions, transparent verification mechanisms, and a credible funding framework. The union believes that this will help prevent institutions from circumventing the accreditation process. By enforcing these measures, the government can ensure that institutions meet the required standards and provide quality education.
Ultimately, CONUA's support for the Federal Government's directive aims to promote academic integrity and accountability in Nigeria's university system. The union believes that this move will help ensure that institutions provide quality education and maintain the credibility of the accreditation process. By working together, CONUA and the government can promote a culture of excellence and transparency in Nigeria's higher education sector.
Key points
- CONUA supports the Federal Government's ban on hired lecturers and equipment for accreditation to promote academic integrity.
- The union urges the government to define sanctions for errant institutions and provide adequate funding for universities.
- CONUA emphasizes the need for clear implementation guidelines and transparent verification mechanisms to ensure effective accreditation.
