COVID-19: Nigeria prepares to reopen its education sector

Nigeria is currently in the third phase of easing lockdown measures, and the government is considering reopening the education sector. However, some stakeholders, including the National President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, Professor Biodun Ogunyemi, have expressed concerns about the timing of this decision. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Professor Ogunyemi highlighted several issues with the government's approach to reopening schools. He pointed out that the conditions set by the government for the safe reopening of schools have not been adequately met, posing a risk to students, teachers, and staff. These conditions include the availability of running water, face masks, hand sanitizers, and proper training for educational operators. While some progress has been made in state capitals and urban areas, there is a lack of awareness and compliance in other regions of the country. The government's focus on urban centers has led to a false sense of security, as COVID-19 continues to spread in less populated areas. Professor Ogunyemi emphasized the need for a thorough risk assessment of schools at the local level to ensure that all necessary measures are in place before reopening. He also raised concerns about the government's transparency in reporting COVID-19 cases, citing a decrease in testing and a potential manipulation of statistics. Additionally, Professor Ogunyemi stressed the interconnectedness of the health and education sectors, highlighting the importance of addressing systemic issues in both areas. The lack of infrastructure and resources in Nigerian universities poses a challenge to implementing safety measures like social distancing and adequate supplies. The ongoing struggle between the government and educational unions reflects larger issues within the country's education and health systems. Despite these challenges, Professor Ogunyemi reiterated his union's commitment to prioritizing the health and well-being of Nigerians above all else. The conversation around reopening schools must center on public health rather than political considerations, emphasizing the need for collaboration and accountability between government officials and education stakeholders.