Concerned about stress-related deaths and declining wellbeing among lecturers, ASUU has turned to sports, medical checks, and scholarships to promote healthier, longer, and more productive academic lives.
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike (AEFUNAI) branch, has launched a week-long sporting fiesta aimed at improving the health, longevity, and productivity of its members.
Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Daniel Nwachukwu, who declared the event open, emphasised that regular exercise is essential for both physical and mental wellbeing. He noted that even 30 minutes of daily physical activity can extend lifespan, reduce medical costs, and improve brain performance—key factors for sustaining academic excellence.
ASUU branch Chairperson, Dr Louis Omenyi, said the initiative forms part of a broader welfare programme approved by the union’s national leadership to address rising cases of stress-related deaths among lecturers. He explained that heavy workloads, limited rest, and lack of routine medical checks have made preventive healthcare a priority.
Beyond sports, the programme also includes medical screenings and scholarships for indigent students. Nationally, ASUU is awarding N200,000 each to two students per branch, but the AEFUNAI branch expanded its support to 12 beneficiaries by sponsoring 10 additional students.
The week-long event features football, track races, volleyball, lawn tennis, and other activities designed to encourage fitness, bonding, and stress relief. Organisers say the fiesta will now become an annual tradition to strengthen staff welfare and promote a healthier academic workforce.
Leave a comment