Having experienced both private and public universities in Nigeria, I’ve had the unique opportunity to witness firsthand the contrasts and similarities that define these two educational spheres. The common assumption is that public universities offer a superior education, with more experienced lecturers and better resources. However, my experience tells a different story, one that challenges the conventional wisdom and highlights the complexity of our educational system.

Academic Standards: Not About the Lecturers

One of the most striking revelations during my time in both private and public universities is that the quality of teaching is not as black and white as many believe. Contrary to the popular opinion that public universities offer a better education, I’ve found that the basic things being taught are not so different between the two. In fact, some lecturers in private universities are just as qualified, if not more so than their counterparts in public institutions. The real difference lies not in the content but in the approach and system surrounding the education.

Nigeria’s educational system has no destination’- Chris Oyakhilome

Public Universities charge lower tuition fees but are also extremely competitive and have a low acceptance rate.

Systemic Challenges: The Burden of Public Universities

The system in public universities is notoriously hard on students. It’s not just about the academic rigor but also the bureaucratic and administrative hurdles that seem designed to frustrate rather than facilitate learning. The frequent strikes by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) are a prime example. These strikes, often prolonged and without timely resolution, unnecessarily extend students’ time in school. What should be a straightforward four-year degree can easily stretch into six or more years due to disruptions. This not only wastes time but also dampens the enthusiasm and momentum of students who are eager to complete their studies and move on with their lives.

Efficiency and Student Experience in Private Universities

In contrast, private universities in Nigeria, like those in other countries, operate on a more efficient timetable. The academic calendar is adhered to strictly, and students can plan their futures with confidence, knowing that their graduation date won’t be arbitrarily pushed back by an unexpected strike. Moreover, students in private universities are more likely to be heard and supported. The environment is often more nurturing, with a focus on ensuring that students have the resources they need to succeed, both academically and personally.

Did you know? Cheapest private universities in Nigeria in 2024 1. Oduduwa University located in Ipetumodu, Osun state(N98,000 – N35,000) was founded in 2009

The Myth of Time Equals Quality

There is a pervasive belief that the longer one spends in a public university, the better the education. However, this is a fallacy. Spending additional years in school due to avoidable disruptions does not enhance the quality of education; if anything, it diminishes it. In private universities, the emphasis is on completing the curriculum efficiently and effectively, preparing students to enter the workforce or pursue further studies without unnecessary delay.

Did you know? Cheapest Federal universities in Nigeria University of ibadan (N50,000 – N25,000)

Conclusion: A Call for Reform

The Nigerian educational system, particularly in public universities, is in dire need of reform. The systemic challenges, from frequent strikes to bureaucratic inefficiencies, do a disservice to the very students they are meant to educate. While private universities offer a more streamlined and supportive environment, they are not accessible to all due to their higher costs. The solution is not to pit one system against the other but to learn from the strengths of each and work towards a more balanced, efficient, and student-centered approach across all institutions. Only then can we ensure that all Nigerian students receive the quality education they deserve, without unnecessary obstacles standing in their way.