By our correspondent
The recent transformation of the Akwa Ibom State College of Education, Afaha Nsit, into the Akwa Ibom State University of Education has sparked questions about staff welfare, lecturer retention and the readiness of the institution to operate effectively as a university.
Some individuals claiming to be familiar with developments within the institution have questioned whether the upgrade will deliver its intended benefits if concerns about working conditions, academic staffing and staff commitment are not adequately addressed.
The sources, who requested anonymity, alleged that some academic staff members were dissatisfied with aspects of the transition and that some lecturers had considered or pursued opportunities outside the institution. These claims could not be independently verified as of the time of publication.
The sources also alleged that some lecturers were seeking teaching appointments in private institutions while retaining responsibilities at the state-owned institution. However, our paper could not independently establish the identities of the staff involved, the nature of any outside appointments or whether such arrangements violated institutional rules.
One of the individuals mentioned in the allegations was Dr. Victoria Uwah, reportedly associated with the Computer Science Department. The allegations concerning her employment status and involvement in the controversy have not been independently confirmed. She and the institution’s management should be given an opportunity to respond before any specific wrongdoing is attributed to her.
The controversy raises a broader question about the relationship between institutional expansion and staff welfare. Upgrading a college to university status can create opportunities for expanded academic programmes, research, improved facilities and greater access to higher education. However, such benefits depend partly on adequate funding, qualified personnel, effective administration and a supportive working environment.
It could be recalled that Governor Umo Eno signed the legislation upgrading the institution in July 2026. The state government had presented the initiative as part of its wider investment in education and teacher development. Professor Philip Afaha was subsequently named the institution’s pioneer Vice-Chancellor.
At a time when the university is beginning a new phase of development, stakeholders will expect the administration to establish clear academic standards, strengthen staffing arrangements and ensure that lecturers can discharge their responsibilities effectively.
Questions about remuneration, promotion, research support, teaching facilities and other conditions of service are also important. If academic staff believe that their welfare needs are not being addressed, the institution could face difficulties retaining experienced lecturers and attracting qualified professionals.
At the same time, staff members are expected to comply with their employment agreements, attend to their assigned duties and prioritise students’ learning. Where allegations of unauthorised outside employment or neglect of teaching responsibilities arise, management should investigate them fairly and apply established procedures where evidence supports disciplinary action.
Our paper could not independently verify the allegation that the university upgrade was a scam. The change in legal status is a documented development, but whether the institution will achieve its objectives must be assessed through evidence of funding, accreditation, staffing, facilities, academic performance and the quality of teaching.
The state government and university management are therefore encouraged to address legitimate staff concerns transparently, clarify policies on outside employment and publish information on the resources available for the institution’s transition.
The university’s management should also respond to the allegations raised by the anonymous sources, including claims about lecturer retention and the welfare of academic staff. Dr. Victoria Uwah should likewise be given the opportunity to clarify the claims concerning her.
Ultimately, the success of the Akwa Ibom State University of Education will depend not only on its new status but also on the quality of its academic leadership, the commitment of its staff, the welfare of employees and the learning outcomes of its students. These issues deserve careful investigation and public accountability as the institution develops.