The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges to nations and their institutions across the globe, including Nigerian universities. As educational institutions grappled with the disruptions caused by the pandemic, it became evident that there was an urgent need to enhance pandemic preparedness measures within Nigerian universities. This health emergency also exposed the vulnerabilities of nations worldwide, including their education systems. Nigerian universities faced significant challenges which include; disruption of academic activities, limited practical and laboratory-based learning, mental health concerns, and research setbacks in responding to the crisis.
Pandemic preparedness refers to the comprehensive measures, strategies, and plans put in place by individuals, communities, institutions, and governments to effectively respond to and mitigate the impact of a pandemic. It involves proactive actions taken before a pandemic occurs to enhance readiness and ensure a swift and coordinated response when faced with a widespread outbreak of an infectious disease.
Pandemic preparedness is an ongoing process that requires continuous monitoring, evaluation, and adaptation based on the evolving nature of infectious diseases. By investing in preparedness measures, countries can minimise the health, social, and economic consequences of a pandemic, protect the well-being of their populations and curtail the debilitating disruptions which are parenthetic to such emergencies.
Although COVID-19 pandemic has been declared no longer a health emergency by the World Health Organisation, it is important to note that COVID-19 has now become accepted as a part of our society. Therefore, it becomes important to illuminate the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and propose strategies for strengthening preparedness in Nigerian universities to mitigate future health crises.
The pandemic highlighted the importance of adaptability and quickness in responding to sudden disruptions. Nigerian universities must establish contingency plans that allow for swift transitions to alternative learning methods, such as online platforms, to ensure uninterrupted education during crises.
The COVID-19 crisis exposed the digital divide within the Nigerian university system. To strengthen pandemic preparedness, it is crucial to invest in robust digital infrastructure, including reliable internet access and technological resources, to facilitate seamless online learning and communication channels when the need arises.
The pandemic emphasised the need for stringent health and safety protocols within universities. Implementing measures such as regular sanitisation and the provision of continuous health education will help protect students, faculty, and staff from potential outbreaks.
The psychological impact of the pandemic on students and faculty cannot be overlooked. Nigerian universities should prioritise mental health support services, including counselling and access to mental health professionals, to address the emotional well-being of their academic communities.
Nigerian universities should formulate and regularly update comprehensive pandemic response plans that outline protocols for preventive measures, outbreak management, and communication strategies with stakeholders.
Investing in research and innovation focused on infectious diseases and public health will enable universities to contribute to the development of effective prevention and treatment strategies, which could also be shared with adjoining communities as part of their community engagement. Collaboration with national and international research institutions should be encouraged to enhance shared experiences.
Strengthening collaborations between Nigerian universities, government agencies, and public health organisations is vital. These partnerships can foster information sharing, resource mobilisation, and joint initiatives for pandemic preparedness and response.
Nigerian universities should incorporate pandemic preparedness into the annual budgets for their health needs and be serious about it. Providing training to students, faculty, and staff on infection prevention, crisis management, and emergency response will create a more informed and prepared academic community.
The COVID-19 crisis and resulting lessons have underscored the need for Nigerian universities to strengthen their pandemic preparedness measures. By incorporating the lessons learnt from the COVID-19 experience, focusing on adaptability, investing in digital infrastructure, implementing health and safety protocols, and prioritising mental health support, Nigerian universities can better withstand future health crises and shocks. By fostering collaborative partnerships, enhancing research capabilities, and providing relevant training, these can play a pivotal role in safeguarding the well-being and educational continuity of students, faculty, and staff during times of crisis.
- Korfii Uebari is an environmental chemist and public health monitoring and evaluation expert
