The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has called on the federal government to address the rising poverty rate and unemployment in the country.

ASUU President Christopher Piwuna made the call during a news conference on Friday in Jos.

Mr Piwuna, who also decried the myriads of security challenges confronting the nation, said good economic and educational policies would position the country to tackle its current challenges.

He also said the proposed state police would bring the desired changes in the nation’s security only when the government’s policies were people-centred.

“Government must redirect its socio-economic policies and projects to prioritise the people on whose behalf they hold public resources in trust.

“ASUU calls for a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s educational system to reflect the country’s peculiar socio-economic, cultural, technological and developmental realities.

“Government should not merely replicate models developed for other societies. Greater attention must be given to research, technical education, agriculture, innovation and development of skills relevant to Nigeria’s needs,” he said.

The ASUU president, who decried the neglect of public universities, also called on the government to address outstanding issues bothering the welfare of university lecturers. 

(NAN)