UI Resumes Amid Ongoing Tensions Over Tuition Fee Hike

Students of the University of Ibadan (UI) recently resumed academic activities after a three-week break prompted by tensions surrounding the institution's recent tuition fee hike. Despite efforts by the Federal Government to alleviate the financial burden through the student loan scheme, many students, especially those unable to secure loans, are still uncertain about their ability to continue their education.

Founded in 1948 as University College Ibadan, UI has long been regarded as Nigeria’s premier institution, offering quality education at an affordable cost. However, the recent increase in tuition fees has sparked concerns among students, many of whom were unprepared for the unexpected financial strain.

Michael, a 100-level Physics student, described his experience as overwhelming. “We gained admission to UI expecting affordable fees in a federal university. But the sudden fee hike felt like a trap; it’s a psychological burden knowing I might drop out at any time,” he lamented. Michael applied for a student loan but has yet to receive approval, further compounding his anxiety as he approaches his examinations.

In July, UI students staged a protest against the fee increase, prompting the university management to announce a three-week break to allow students more time to complete registration and address their financial concerns. However, as classes resumed, many students remain unable to pay their fees, with some relying on crowdfunding or personal savings.

A 300-level Mechanical Engineering student shared his struggles: “My school fee is N136,000. I have managed to pay N106,000, but I’m still short of the N30,000 for Utility and Technology fees. There’s no support from home, and I’m out of food.” The student, who wished to remain anonymous, said he had to use his savings meant for school fees to survive, highlighting the dire situation many students face.

Despite the Federal Government’s intervention through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which recently approved loans for 3,283 UI students, disbursement delays have left many students in limbo. A recent memo from the UI Registrar confirmed that while the loans had been approved, funds had only just been credited to the university. Affected students were directed to complete their registration through a dedicated online portal.

However, the uncertainty continues for those unable to secure loans or gather enough funds. Last Friday, students organized another peaceful protest, pleading with the university management and the Federal Government to reconsider the fee structure. Protesters carried placards highlighting the harsh realities faced by indigent students, with some resorting to extreme measures to raise funds.

“If we have to crowdfund for N400,000 now, what happens when fees rise to N600,000?” one student asked during the protest. “The economy is tough, not just on us but also on those we depend on for support. Many students have already dropped out.”

The ongoing fee hike saga at the University of Ibadan reflects the broader struggles of students across Nigeria, as rising costs and economic challenges threaten to derail their dreams of higher education. As UI resumes, the education of many students remains in the balance, with uncertainty clouding their academic futures.