From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja
The National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, has called on all higher institutions in the country to improve the standards of their campus and healthcare facilities.
In a letter addressed to all higher institutions in the country, the Vice-President Special Duties of the NANS, Ezinwa Ahaneku Valentine Nzubechi, urged them to at all times, prioritize the well-being of their students.
The letter read in full: “As the Vice-President Special Duties of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), I bring to your attention a matter of utmost importance that concerns the well-being and academic environment of our esteemed students across the nation.
“In recent times, there has been a growing concern about the quality of campus hostels in our higher institutions. It is imperative that we collectively address this issue, ensuring that the living conditions of our students are conducive to their physical and academic well-being. Our appeal is a sincere call to action, seeking your collaboration in enhancing the standards of campus hostels.
“We implore each institution to assess and improve the structural integrity of campus hostels. Dilapidated buildings pose risks to the safety and security of students, and it is our shared responsibility to create an environment that fosters both learning and well-being.
“A reliable supply of electricity and water is fundamental to the daily lives of students. Institutions are urged to invest in sustainable infrastructure, ensuring uninterrupted power supply and access to clean water. This basic necessity contributes significantly to the comfort and hygiene of students.
“The state of medical centers within our institutions demands urgent attention. Adequate funding should be allocated to ensure these centers are well-equipped with necessary medical supplies and technological equipment. This initiative is pivotal in providing prompt and efficient healthcare services to our students.
“Medical centers should maintain a consistent supply of essential drugs. It is our collective duty to prioritize the health of our students by ensuring that they have access to the medications required for their well-being. This step is crucial in addressing health-related issues promptly.
“The integration of necessary technological equipment in medical centers is paramount. This will not only facilitate accurate diagnoses but also expedite the process of addressing health-related concerns, thereby safeguarding the overall health and academic performance of our students.
“This call to action is not just an appeal to the individual institutions; it extends to the Minister of Education, Vice Chancellors, Rectors, and all education stakeholders in the federation. We request your collaboration in ensuring the implementation of these improvements across all higher institutions in Nigeria.
“Your support in advocating for and facilitating the necessary funding and policies for these improvements is pivotal. We trust that you will champion this cause for the benefit of the entire student community.
“As leaders of our esteemed institutions, we implore you to prioritize the well-being of our students. Consider this call to action as an opportunity to contribute significantly to the development of a conducive academic environment.
“We anticipate a collaborative effort to address these concerns promptly, creating a positive and conducive learning environment for our students. Let us collectively invest in the well-being of the future leaders of our nation.
“Thank you for your attention and commitment to the betterment of higher education in Nigeria.”