List of Federal Universities Not Under ASUU in 2024

ASUU stands for Academic Staff Union of Universities. It is the association of university academic staff in Nigeria. ASUU advocates for improved working conditions and wages of university professors and lecturers across the country.

When the government fails to meet ASUU's demands, the union directs members to embark on strikes. These strikes often disrupt university academic activities and delay students' progress. Some of the notable ASUU strikes include those of 1988, 1992, 1994, 1996, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2020.

Why Some Federal Universities Are Not Part of ASUU

Some federal universities in Nigeria are not part of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) for a few reasons. ASUU is the umbrella union for university academic staff in Nigeria, but membership is voluntary.

Autonomy Certain federal universities value their autonomy and independence. Being part of ASUU means adhering to the union's rules and directives. Some universities prefer to govern themselves without external control or influence over their operations and policies.

Better Funding A few federal universities get more funding and resources from the government and private donors. They are able to pay academic staff higher salaries and provide better facilities. These universities see little benefit in joining ASUU to push for improved welfare and working conditions.

Focus on Research A couple of federal universities are more focused on research and see ASUU's frequent strikes as disruptive. They aim to maintain stability to enable uninterrupted research activities. Some also get additional research grants and believe ASUU's demands may discourage donors.

Staff Satisfaction

In some federal universities, staff report a high level of satisfaction with the administration and existing conditions. The staff feel their needs are being met reasonably well and do not feel the need to join ASUU to demand for better pay, infrastructure or other benefits. However, these universities still face similar challenges as other federal universities in Nigeria. They are also affected by issues around funding, facilities, salaries, class sizes, staffing, etc. But for various reasons, they have opted out of the ASUU union and collective actions.

While ASUU continues to push for improved welfare and the revitalization of public universities in Nigeria, some federal universities choose to chart their own course. Their autonomy, funding sources, research focus and staff satisfaction are reasons these universities remain outside the ASUU umbrella.

Full List of Federal Universities Not Under ASUU in 2024

1. University of Abuja

Established in 1988, the University of Abuja is a federal university located in Abuja, Nigeria. It is one of the universities that are not under the Academic Staff Union of Universities. With over 40,000 students, the university offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in fields like Arts, Education, Engineering, Medicine, Sciences, Social Sciences, and Management Sciences.

2. University of Agriculture, Abeokuta

Popularly known as UNAAB, the University of Agriculture Abeokuta is one of the leading universities of agriculture in Africa. It is a specialized federal university that focuses on training agriculturists, agricultural policymakers and individuals interested in agriculture. The university which is not under ASUU offers programs at undergraduate, postgraduate and doctorate levels in fields like Agriculture, Sciences, Engineering, Food Science, Environmental Management, Nutrition and Veterinary Medicine.

3. Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun

FUPRE is a specialized federal university focused on training experts in the oil and gas sector. Established in 2007, the university is located in Delta State, Nigeria. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in fields such as Engineering, Sciences, Management and Environmental Studies. FUPRE which is not a member of ASUU aims to be a center of excellence for education and research in petroleum engineering and petroleum-related fields.

4. Federal University, Dutse

Established in 2011, Federal University Dutse is located in Jigawa State, Nigeria. It is one of the newly established federal universities that are not under the Academic Staff Union of Universities. The university offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in fields like Agriculture, Arts, Education, Engineering, Law, Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Social Sciences. With over 15,000 students, the university aims to expand access to university education and promote socio-economic development.

Features of Non-Asuu Federal Universities

1. No Strike Actions

One of the major advantages of non-ASUU federal universities is the uninterrupted academic calendar. Students are assured of completing their programs within the stipulated time without delays from lecturers’ strikes. Since the universities are not under ASUU, there are no threats of strike actions that often disrupt activities in public universities under the union.

2. Affordable Tuition

Although non-ASUU federal universities are not subsidized by the government, they still charge relatively affordable tuition fees compared to private universities. The fees are regulated by the National Universities Commission to ensure they are not exploitative. This makes the schools accessible to students from low-income backgrounds who cannot afford expensive private universities.

3. Smaller Class Sizes

Non-ASUU federal universities typically have smaller class sizes which enhances teacher-student interaction. Lecturers can give students more attention and adequately monitor their progress. Students also find it easier to ask questions and participate actively in class discussions. The smaller populations in these schools also mean less competition for resources and opportunities.

4. Entrepreneurship Focus

Some non-ASUU federal universities like Baze University and Nigerian Turkish Nile University have a strong focus on entrepreneurship. They provide students with practical skills to become job creators rather than job seekers. The schools organize regular training programs, seminars and workshops on entrepreneurship. Students also have opportunities to pitch business ideas and benefit from mentorship. This entrepreneurial focus produces graduates with a mindset to build sustainable businesses.

5. Modern Facilities

Non-ASUU federal universities invest heavily in providing state-of-the-art facilities for teaching and learning. They have modern lecture theaters, well-equipped laboratories, expansive libraries and strong IT infrastructure. These facilities provide a conducive environment for students to gain the relevant knowledge and skills to meet 21st century challenges. The ultra-modern amenities also attract top academics and industry experts to the schools.

Conclusion

In summary, non-ASUU federal universities have unique features that appeal to students and parents looking for a seamless university experience. With no disruptions from strikes, affordable fees and a focus on entrepreneurship and modernity, these schools are raising a new generation of leaders for the future.