“Education is a right not a privilege. Any further attempt to hike the school fees by the federal government must be abolished”
“While students loan can democratize education access, it can also lead to debt crisis amid current economic realities that can’t even be predicted for ease”
“President Tinubu must with all sense of urgency assent to the bill passed by the Senate in July 2020 that criminalizes sexual harassment in tertiary institutions. It is long overdue. It will be four years of endless wait by next month”
Ile-Ife, Osun State: Adetunbi Abdulmonnan Olamilekan, popularly known as Otunba, a part 3 student of Educational Management, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) and aspiring student union president, has outlined his plans to address some of the most pressing issues facing the university’s student body.
Otunba, a native of Osun state but raised in Ibadan, emphasized his commitment to defending student rights and improving their well-being. He believes an ideal student union should prioritize student interests, advocate for their rights, cater to their welfare, and ensure transparency and inclusivity in decision-making.
Against Fee Hike and Committed to Affordable Education
One of Otunba’s central concerns is the affordability of education. He vehemently opposes any potential increase in school fees, especially considering the financial strain faced by many students.
“Many of the administrators enjoyed free education in their time,” Otunba said. “Why are they making it difficult for us now?” He highlighted the challenges students faced with the previous fee of 20,000 Naira and believes a further increase would be unbearable. He commended the previous administration’s efforts to secure funding for struggling students and vowed to continue such initiatives. He emphasized that “education is a right not a privilege”.
Combating Cultism and Ensuring Student Safety
Otunba acknowledges OAU’s historical stance against cultism and the importance of maintaining a safe learning environment. He plans to lead an anti-cultism campaign and strengthen the collaboration between the student union security and the school security council to maximize student safety.
Addressing Sexual Harassment and Prioritizing Student Welfare
Otunba recognizes the gravity of sexual harassment faced by students while showing concern about the failure of the president of the federal republic of Nigeria’s failure to assent the bill criminalizing sexual harassment in schools though he intends to address it as OAU represent learning and culture, though details of his plans were not disclosed in the interview.
Student well-being remains a top priority for Otunba. He proposes a three-pronged approach of Aluta, “Consultation, Consolidation and Confrontation” will be a key approach to ensure management fulfills its obligations towards students. This approach will definitely prioritize open communication and collaboration to address student needs effectively.
Otunba’s platform highlights his commitment to tackling some of OAU’s most pressing issues. With the upcoming student union elections, his stance on these issues is sure to resonate with the student body.
