Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday at the Gender Inclusion Summit organised by the Policy Innovation Centre, Alausa dismissed fears of fresh disruptions in academic activities, stressing that ongoing engagements between the Federal Government and ASUU are being handled with “mutual respect.”
“We will keep our children in school. ASUU will not go on strike. This is a responsible government, and we will ensure our children stay in school,” Alausa said.
Negotiations with ASUU
The assurance comes amid renewed talks over the non-implementation of the 2009 ASUU-FGN Agreement. Key demands include sustainable university funding, revitalisation of infrastructure, payment of outstanding salary arrears, clearance of unremitted third-party deductions, and resolution of stalled promotions.
The minister noted that although sensitive negotiations cannot be made public, discussions remain active and positive.
Digital Transformation in Examinations
Alausa also announced reforms to curb examination malpractice, including the migration of WAEC and NECO examinations to computer-based testing (CBT).
“I am happy that by November this year, WAEC’s objective section will be conducted via CBT while essays will remain on paper. By next year, both will be fully CBT,” he said.
He added that government has clear plans to integrate students in underserved communities and those living with disabilities by transporting them to equipped centres.
Women Inclusion Gains Ground
At the summit, the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, disclosed that women now lead over 40% of Nigeria’s key commercial banks and occupy 22% of corporate leadership positions—higher than the global average of 20%.
She highlighted successes such as Adamawa State’s recognition of women’s rights to inherit land and Niger State’s policy reserving all local government vice-chairmanship positions for women.
Driving Inclusive Change
Stakeholders including the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) Chairman, Niyi Yusuf, and Policy Innovation Centre Chairman, Udeme Ufot, underscored the need for innovation, technology, and collective action to close gender and youth inclusion gaps in Nigeria.
“This year’s theme, New Voices and New Approaches for Accelerating an Inclusive Society, calls us to embrace innovation and creativity for true progress,” Yusuf noted.
