Perceived Impact of Industrial Actions on the Academic Performance of Students in Tertiary Institutions in Delta State Nigeria

Abstract

The study investigated the perceived impact of industrial actions on the academic performance of students in tertiary institutions in Delta State, Nigeria. Three research questions were raised and answered in the study. Two null hypotheses were formulated and tested at a .05 level of significance. A descriptive survey research design was used in the study. Two hundred seventeen students of tertiary institutions in Delta State comprised the sample of the study. A structured questionnaire titled ‘Impact of Industrial Action on Students’ Academic Performance Questionnaire’ (IIASAPQ)’ was used for data collection. Mean and standard deviation, as well as t-test statistics, were used to answer the research questions. The formulated null hypotheses were tested at a .05 level of significance using t-test statistics. The findings revealed that instability in the policies of the government both at the central and state levels, poor welfare and remuneration package of the staff of the various unions, among others, are causes of industrial actions of unions of Nigeria tertiary institutions, and the difference in the mean ratings on the causes of industrial actions of unions of Nigeria tertiary institutions is not significant based on gender. Additionally, lack of interest in school among students, which leads to poor academic performance, reduced and low grades, and poor study habits among students to a great extent are the impact of industrial actions of various unions on the academic performance of students in Nigeria tertiary institutions, and, the difference in the mean ratings on the extent industrial actions impacts academic performance of students in Nigeria tertiary institutions is not significant based on gender. Based on the findings, the study recommended, among others, that the federal government should ensure that there is a smooth and regular dialogue with various unions of tertiary institutions so as to avoid incessant industrial actions. The unions of various tertiary institutions should understand the impact of their industrial action on the academic performance of the students, therefore, seek alternative means of dispute and conflict resolution with the federal government instead of resorting to industrial actions.