The planned 750% hike in fees for newly admitted students at the University of Ibadan has been strongly criticized by the student body.
In a statement released by the President of the University’s Student Union, Samuel Tobiloba, and the General Secretary, Olaniyi Dolapo, a meeting with the university management was requested to address the proposed fee adjustments.
The Union expressed shock over the sudden portal opening and fee increment for new students.
According to the union, the fees displayed on the portal varied from N133,500 to N372,500, excluding the additional utility and technology levies of N20,000 each student is required to pay.
“To seek clarity, we engaged with the university management and confirmed that the portal opening was a demonstration process in preparation for payment and registration, with a planned fee increase ranging from N133,500 to N238,500, in addition to the utility and technology levies (totaling N80,000),” the statement read.
“We are concerned that this increase represents a significant 450%-750% surge from the previous fee range of approximately N20,000 – N30,000.”
“This rise comes at a time when many students are already struggling to afford the current fee structure and dealing with rising living costs in the country.”
“The Union vehemently opposes this fee increase and demands a return to the previous fee structure.”
“We also seek a meeting with the university management to address this matter,” the statement concluded.
The Union urged students, especially new entrants, to remain patient while they work towards resolving the fee increment with the university authorities.