October 12, 2024 – Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka
Medical students at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) in Anambra State are expressing significant frustration due to delays in their examinations and graduation, stemming from an ongoing strike by the Medical and Dental Consultants’ Association of Nigeria (MDCAN). The strike, initiated on September 24, 2024, protests the governing council’s decision to impose certain disqualifying requirements on medical and dental lecturers seeking to contest for the position of vice-chancellor.
Students are urging both the university administration and MDCAN to prioritize their education and resolve the strike promptly. The MDCAN contends that the newly imposed requirements are discriminatory and undermine the integrity of the medical education system.
Many students have reported that the strike has disrupted their academic progress, with crucial examinations for 500 and 600-level students stalled. Emmanuel Ikefuna, President of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Medical Students Association, highlighted the dire consequences of the strike, stating, “Learning activities are being cut short. We are planning a mega protest at the main campus in Awka.”
Final-year students, who were poised to begin their exams, are particularly affected. “This has thrown our future into limbo,” lamented one anonymous student. “After countless hours of studying, seeing our exams put on hold is heartbreaking.”
In a related statement, Dr. Victor Modekwe, Chairman of MDCAN at the UNIZIK Teaching Hospital, emphasized that the strike is intended to address systemic issues that ultimately affect students. “If we reach a resolution, classes will resume. This injustice impacts not just the medical profession but also students’ futures,” he stated.
The students have indicated their intention to stage a protest to voice their dissatisfaction, highlighting the urgency for resolution as they seek to resume their education without further delays.