Effects of ASUU Strike on the Quality of Pharmacy Education in Nigeria; An Assessment of Pharmacy Schools in South Eastern Nigeria

Education institutions in Nigeria have experienced socio-educational consequences due to the Academic Staff Union Universities (ASUU) power to call out workers. The decline in the quality of education among Nigerian institutions of higher learning is exacerbated by persistent strikes. Pharmacy education is crucial for producing skilled pharmacists, but the Federal Government’s negligence in agreements with the ASUU has led to longer strikes lasting up to 8 months. This study examines pharmacy education in South Eastern Nigeria following the university staff union-organized strike action. The study was conducted at the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, in Anambra and Enugu states, Nigeria. The study involved undergraduate Pharmacy students and was conducted using a random sampling technique. The sample size was 340 students, with 340 selected from each level. Lecturers of the two faculties were also sampled. A structured hybrid questionnaire was developed and validated, and data analysis was performed using a statistical package for social science (SPSS version 27). The ASUU Strike negatively impacted Nigeria’s Pharmacy Education, with more than 52% admitting negative effects on their academics. Students disagree that the strike improved performance, leading to delays in graduation and a lack of quality lectures and practical classes. The strike also affected research opportunities for pharmacy students while exposing them to anxiety, depression, and social vices. Strikes cause academic delays, limited resources, reduced faculty engagement, hindered research and training, and decreased motivation. Longer strikes also negatively affect lecturers’ finances and quality of life.