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 PREMIUM TIMES
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 PREMIUM
TIMES. 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.