LETTER TO GOVERNOR ADELEKE - COMR. TAIWO EMMANUEL ADEDAPO

The Public Relations Officer, Nigeria Association of Nigerian Students Osun JCC Axis, and also the President, National Association of Osun State Students (OAU Chapter) give a succinct description of how the current administration has promoted the commercialisation of education which prevent some students from advancing their education.

In a recent memo circulating this morning, I became aware of the fee increment at Osun State Polytechnic, Iree. As a student and a key stakeholder in the Osun State student movement, my disappointment with the Polytechnic Management compels me to voice my opinion.

Nigeria, along with its 36 states, has deviated from the right path concerning education. Education, reminiscent of the wdays of the Greeks and Spartans, should serve as a tool for nation-building. Its historical impact on global development is a testament to its transformative power.

Comr. Taiwo Emmanuel, NANS JCC Osun Axis

Chief Obafemi Jeremiah Awolowo acknowledged the pivotal role of education in national development. During his governorship in the old Western Region, he made education accessible to all, regardless of status and race.

PRO, NANS JCC OSUN AXIS

Comr. Taiwo Emmanuel

Unfortunately, those who benefited from such policies are now transforming education into a privilege for a select few.

Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, previously seen as an affordable institution by parents in Osun State, is facing fee increments that contradict the expectations of the people.

It is disheartening if the Adeleke government follows the footsteps of the previous APC government in increasing school fees, a move widely condemned. The expectation was for the government to uphold an education model aligning with development goals.

Gov. Adeleke

The commercialization of education contradicts principles established by figures like Socrates, who opposed the Sophists seeking financial gain in exchange for knowledge. As a Leviathan, the Osun State Government should ensure accessible education for its people.

Education, as a weapon against poverty, plays a crucial role in fostering productivity.

Nationwide concerns about education commercialization, particularly since Tinubu's presidency, are evident. It is crucial to prevent a scenario where the children of the poor cannot access public institutions in Osun State. The Osun State government should refrain from replicating Tinubu's approach, and there is a collective belief in Governor Adeleke's commitment to accessible education. Our governor must not disappoint the people.

In solidarity with my colleagues at Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, I want to emphasize our unity in this emancipation struggle.

Adedapo Taiwo Emmanuel (Network)

Public Relations Officer, NANS JCC Osun Axis

National Association Of Osun State Students (OAU Chapter).

Writes from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife