ASUU Strike: Students Embark On Artisanal Training

The ongoing strike embarked on by the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, since early July has forced many students in Abeokuta and environs to register for various vocational training.

The students, tired of sitting idly at home, have taken up vocational training in tailoring, hairdressing, auxiliary nursing, electronic repairs, shoe making etc.
A survey conducted by NigerianEYE in the Ogun State capital showed that most of the students were encouraged on these training by their parents. A parent, Femi Shodunke, said the strike may be a blessing in disguise for many of the students who may end up using the trade learnt to better their lives in future.


He, however, passionately called on all stakeholders in education sector to address the problems before it get out of hand. Similar sentiments were expressed by some students who spoke to NigerianEYE. They said they were tired of sitting at home and have grown to be passionate about their training.

They also pointed out the current high rate of unemployment in the country and the challenges of getting a white collar job. Bisi Adedeji, a student of Tai Solarin University, Ijebu-Ode, studying History and Diplomatic Studies, said she decided to learn tailoring as a way to equip herself for the future and be self reliant.

“I voluntarily told my parents I wanted to learn the trade after realising that a solution to the strike is not in sight and looking ahead of employment benefits after acquiring the degree certificates which is in doubt.

I quickly decided to learn the trade for my benefits and to be independent and an employer of labour,” she stated. Similarly, Oluwatosin Adejobi of the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, said he chose to learn shoe making following society’s current trendy interest in fashion and entertainment.

He noted that shoe making was a lucrative profession which cannot be detached from fashion and entertainment and he could develop it into a more commercial trade after he graduates from the university.