IMPACT, ASSU STRIKE , ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE, STUDENT, UNIBEN

The main study is to discuss about the impacts of ASUU strikes on the academic performance of university students; using UNIBEN as a case study. The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) in Nigeria has frequently engaged in strikes,causing significant disruptions in the education system. This study examines the impact ofASUU strikes on the academic performance of students both negatively and positively, with a specific focus on the University ofBenin (UNIBEN). Survey research design was adopted in this study. Through qualitative and quantitative methods, this research reveals the multifaceted effects ofthese strikes on the academic performance which are psychological health, skill retention, waning interest in educational system, sound education to the poor, motivation of students etc.Strikes disrupt the academic calendar, leading to an extended time frame for the completion of academic programs. This disruption often results in a loss of academic momentum, with students having a disjointed understanding oftheir courses. Reduced learning time due to the strikes is another area of concern. The absence of academic activities during strikes deprives students of the much-needed time to comprehend and assimilate their course materials. This study finds that this is particularly detrimental in the study of complex subjects that require continuous engagement. Interestingly, this research uncovers an unexpected dimension: self-directed learning. While not prevalent among all students, some take advantage ofthe strike period to study and research independently, improving their ability to learn autonomously. Despite this potential benefit, it does not counterbalance the overall negative impact ofthe strikes. Furthermore, the strikes induce a significant level of stress and anxiety among students, affecting their motivation to study and overall mental health. In the long run,these psychological impacts can undermine academic performance. The study also addresses the issue of skill decay, which results from a lack of academic activities during the strikes. The prolonged academic inactivity might lead to students losing their acquired skills, adversely affecting their academic performance upon resumption. Finally, the study sheds light on the economic implications of these strikes. Forced
into inactivity, some students turn to entrepreneurship or employment during the strike period. While this might be economically beneficial in the short term, it often distracts students from their academic pursuits when classes resumes.