Outrage as RSU Clarifies Convocation Fees Amid Nearly 100% Hike

The management of Rivers State University (RSU), Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt, has come under heavy criticism from graduating students and parents following the clarification of fees for its forthcoming 37th and 38th combined convocation ceremonies.

A public notice signed by the Registrar, Mrs. Ibimonia B. S. Harry, on September 26, 2025, sought to dispel claims circulating on social media that all graduating students are required to pay ₦220,000 as convocation levy. According to the university, the ₦220,000 fee applies only to PhD graduands and covers the cost of a convocation gown, which recipients retain after the ceremony.

However, the official breakdown of the approved fees has sparked outrage due to sharp increases compared to previous years. The approved convocation fees are as follows:

• Bachelor’s Degree: ₦97,000
• Professional/Certificate Programmes: ₦68,000
• Postgraduate Diploma (PGD): ₦145,000
• Master’s Degree: ₦145,000
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD): ₦220,000 (includes gown to be kept)

Management defended the charges, stating that they are in line with fees in other institutions in the state and “even lower than those charged by our sister universities.”

Despite this explanation, students have expressed frustration, pointing out that the new figures represent nearly a 100% increase from what was paid in past convocations. Many describe the development as unfair and insensitive, given the economic hardship currently faced by families.

Graduating students, parents, and members of the public have been urged by the university to disregard false reports and rely solely on official communications. But on campus and online, the grumbling continues, with many demanding that the management review and reduce the charges.