The Federal Government has assured Nigerians that the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) will not embark on strike, promising that students will remain in school.

Minister of Education, Olatunji Alausa, gave the assurance on Wednesday in Abuja during the Gender Inclusion Summit organised by the Policy Innovation Centre.

He said the government is engaging ASUU and other unions with mutual respect to resolve long-standing issues such as the 2009 FGN-ASUU Agreement, funding for universities, salary arrears, stalled promotions, and allegations of victimisation of members.

“I don’t want to start disclosing private conversations with them, but what I can assure you is that ASUU will not go on strike; we will keep our children in school. This is a responsible government, and we will ensure that our children stay in school,” Alausa said.

The minister also announced reforms in Nigeria’s examination system. According to him, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) will gradually adopt computer-based testing (CBT) to reduce exam malpractice and improve standards.

He explained that from November 2025, WAEC exams will begin with CBT for objective questions, while essay papers will remain handwritten. By 2026, both objectives and essays will be fully CBT.

“We believe CBT is one of the best ways to discourage exam malpractice. It also pushes students to study harder and improves their overall preparation,” he added.