Student Unionism in the Varsity; An Experience beyond classroom knowledge.
In the boundless world of knowledge, it is posited that ‘experience is the best teacher’ and indeed, education in school goes beyond the four corners wall. It encompasses gaining knowledge from various tributaries which could be termed either as theoretical lessons or practical experiences.
Preliminarily, Unionism according to Merriam Webster, “it is the principle or policy of forming and adhering to a union. A union is formed with a motive and applies various strategies to achieving them. It could be a union of traders, professionals or even farmers but two things are common which involves co-operation and motive behind their establishment.
The history of students Unionism in Nigeria could be traced to anti-colonial agitations and the quest for student welfare with the formation of West African Students’ Union (WASU) in London in 1925 pioneered by Nigerian student, Ladipo Solanke. The union advocated for the welfare of African students and influenced the nationalist spirit. After the independence, the union having evolved over time, now focuses on national development and holding the government accountable, therefore, prioritizing the students welfare.
The students Union is spearheaded exclusively by its leaders who are either elected or appointed and belong to the students community of the institution (the students form the union and operate independently). They operate structurally, ranging from the entire school to the faculty, departmental and minor associations like tribal/religion groups etc
The journey of engaging in students Union Government (SUG) as a student while in school could be very hectic and challenging; for instance, trying to cope with classroom routines like lectures and other assessments with Aluta (unionism struggle).The struggle comes with sleepless nights, much stress, criticisms and less pleasure. As an advocate, one shall remain active, fearless, resolute and decisive in unraveling issues. It takes doggedness, sacrifices and selflessness to really get involved.
Nevertheless, the practical knowledge one would acquire in the process shall be powerful, building the person for effective leadership capacity beyond the institutional level. Sometimes, it is not all about getting involved but doing what ought to be done.
It is diabolical, unconstitutional and highly condemnable when some individuals do not uphold the motive behind the formation of the union. These sets of people instead of being vision-driven, they are hungry-driven and poor result-oriented.
Kindly note that unionism is more than activism, it is education in motion which transforms theory into practice and ideas into impacts. It is said that ‘classrooms prepare the mind, experience prepares the heart’. Unionism in the varsity proves that real education happens when knowledge meets reality. Therefore, be encouraged, get involved and learn from first-hand practices.