The Strike and protest that Shaped My College Experience.
Introduction
College of Education Akwanga, like many other higher institutions in Nigeria, has a history of strikes and protests that have shaped the experiences of its students. One such strike that had a profound impact on my College life was the 2008 Academic Staff Union of College of Education Akwanga Nasarawa state strike and protest. This write up reflects on the strike, its causes, effects, and the lessons I learned from the experience .
Causes of the Strike
The 2008 College of Education Akwanga ASUU strike was a state industrial action that began in June 2008 and lasted for Six months. The primary cause of the strike was as the result of the killing of a second year student in the department of Economics by a driver.
Students protest to the provost's or College's failure to implement the 2007 agreement between the students union government and the College. The agreement aimed to improve the security and standard of living of the students , as well as the academic standards.
Effects of the Strike.
The strike had far-reaching effects on the college community, particularly on students . The strike led to the closure of the college of Education Akwanga activities, and academic activities were halted. Students were forced to vacate their hostels and return home, leaving many with uncertainty about their academic future. The strike also led to a significant delay in the completion of academic programs, with many students unable to graduate on behold the picture of some of us
Personal Experience
I was in my second year at the College of Education Akwanga when the strike began. Initially, I was frustrated and disappointed by the sudden disruption to my academic life. However, as the strike dragged on, I began to see the larger picture. I realized that the strike was not just about the students demands but also about the future of education in Nigeria. I joined other students in rallies and protests, demanding that the state government address the union's or students' demands.
Lessons Learned.
The 2008 College of Education Akwanga strike taught me valuable lessons about resilience, activism, and the power of collective action. I learned that even in the face of adversity, students can come together to demand change. The strike also made me appreciate the importance of education and the need for a functional and well-funded education system in Nasarawa state and the society at large.
Conclusion
The 2008 College of Education Akwanga strike was a defining moment in my College experience. While it disrupted my academic life, it also taught me valuable lessons about activism, resilience, and the power of collective action. The strike highlighted the need for a functional and well-funded education system in Nasarawa state and the importance of students' voices in demanding change. The strike also reminded me of the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity.
SOURCE: All pictures are mine