In response to ongoing protests and demands from students, the University of Lagos (UNILAG) recently engaged in a marathon meeting with representatives from the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS). The outcome of this meeting led to significant changes in the fees imposed on students, reflecting a reduction in obligatory charges.
The meeting between UNILAG’s management and NANS was prompted by a series of protests from UNILAG students against what they perceived as exorbitant fees. The demands presented by the students included a reversal of obligatory fees, a reduction in hostel fees, and the reinstatement of the Students’ Union Government (SUG) in UNILAG.
UNILAG Students Protest Fee Hike Today
Fee Reduction Agreement:
Following extensive discussions, both parties reached an agreement to reduce various fees imposed on students. These adjustments aim to alleviate the financial burden on students while maintaining the quality of education provided by the institution. The agreed-upon fee reductions include:
– Utility Charges reduced to N15,000 from N20,000.
– Obligatory fees for new undergraduate students decreased to N116,325 for courses without Lab/Studio and N166,325 for courses with Lab/Studio.
– Obligatory fees for returning undergraduate students lowered to N80,750 for courses without Lab/Studio, N120,250 for courses with Lab/Studio, and N170,250 for Medical/Pharmacy students and students in Health Professions.
– Convocation Fee for final year students reduced to N27,000 from N30,000.
– Hostel fees adjusted for various campuses: N43,000 for undergraduate hostels in Akoka and Yaba campuses (previously N90,000), N65,000 for Idi-Araba campus hostels (previously N120,000), and N135,000 for Sodeinde Hall (previously N250,000).
NANS President Comrade Usman Umar Barambu expressed the importance of reinstating the Students’ Union Government (SUG) in UNILAG. He highlighted that the absence of SUG had hindered effective communication between students and the university’s management. With the SUG in place, students can better voice their concerns and grievances.
UNILAG’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, addressed the institution’s challenging financial situation due to economic realities. She emphasized the university’s commitment to implementing measures that would mitigate the impact of the fee adjustments. These measures include installment payment options, work-study programs, assistance to indigent students, and scholarship opportunities.
Prof. Ogunsola assured students that UNILAG remains dedicated to providing quality education to all, irrespective of social, tribal, or religious backgrounds. She also pledged to initiate the process of reinstating students’ union activities in the university, a development that has been on hold for over six years.
Conclusion:
The fee reduction agreement reached after the meeting between UNILAG’s management and NANS represents a significant step toward addressing students’ concerns. It demonstrates the importance of open dialogue and collaboration between educational institutions and student representatives. While UNILAG strives to balance its financial obligations, it remains committed to offering quality education accessible to all its students.
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