The increment of school fees at UNILAG and the planned increment across tertiary institutions in the country has shown this administration to be a very insensitive one.
As a matter of fact, it is most ridiculous and embarrassing that the government will be introducing fees increment without thinking of rescuing over 133million Nigerian people from multidimensional poverty. Increment in fees across tertiary institutions will only complicate the poverty situation of the country and also increase the number of out-of-school children.
As an association, we believe that the Nigerian government has what it takes to massively fund education and make it accessible. In fact, the students’ loan that was introduced by the Federal Government is nothing but a sham and a bait to lure the Nigerian people into accepting increment in fees payable. Beyond the fact that the terms of the loan is ridiculous, history has taught us that not every applicant will be considered. And, even if all of them were to be considered, it still does not justify increment in an economy that tops unemployment index. Rather than give loan, the government must provide for grants and scholarships for students.
We must state categorically that there is no justification for increment in school fees across our tertiary institutions and even Unity schools. Our demand is clear and simple; the attempt to increase school fees must be suspended. And, those that have floated it must reverse it with immediate effect.
We call on Nigerian students to brace up and be prepared for an all-round protest as was done during the prolonged ASUU strike until the Federal Government reverses this policy.
