By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Professors without PhD at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU or UNIZIK) Awka have protested the selection criteria for the next Vice Chancellor of the institution.

The protest followed the advertised requirement for applicants to hold a PhD in a relevant field, which the professors argue excludes medical professionals who hold fellowships instead.

The professors, mostly from the medical sciences, are calling for the immediate withdrawal and review of a recent advertisement for the appointment of a new Vice Chancellor.

According to them, the stipulation is discriminatory and prevents qualified medical professionals from vying for the top position.

The professors are also seeking a new requirement that candidates must have attracted a grant of at least N400 million to qualify for the role.

They argue that this condition is unreasonable and prioritizes financial capacity over academic merit.

Speaking to journalists, the Chairman of the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) in the university, Dr. Victor I. Modekwe, expressed concerns about the advertisement?s emphasis on financial capacity over academic excellence.

?It suggests that our university operates on a cash-and-carry basis, going to the highest bidder,? he said

Modekwe harped on the need for fairness, inclusiveness, and transparency in the selection process to ensure that all qualified individuals, including medical professionals, can compete for the Vice-Chancellor position.

He further said the strike has left students bearing the brunt of the controversy. ?We see the students as our future alumni, and it pains us that they are suffering due to an avoidable situation,? Dr. Modekwe said.

Responding, NAU authorities urged MDCAN to confirm with the National Universities Commission (NUC) whether a medical fellowship is equivalent to a Ph.D degree.

The Governing Council has emphasized that if the NUC confirms this equivalency, medical fellowships will be accepted as equivalent to PhDs for the appointment of the Vice Chancellor.

The protest has led to a strike by MDCAN members, disrupting academic activities and leaving students out of class.

The professors are appealed to the federal government and relevant authorities to intervene and ensure the university?s leadership selection process remains merit-based and inclusive.

A student who spoke on the situation said, "The university authorities and MDCAN must engage in constructive dialogue to resolve the controversy.

?The National Universities Commission (NUC) should provide clarity on the equivalency of medical fellowships to PhD degrees.?

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