The National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, has urged the federal government to take swift steps to avert fee increases and unfair policies in tertiary institutions in the country.
This call followed the decision of the management of the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike to withhold examinations from students who have not fully paid their school fees.
While describing the development as worrisome given the current financial challenges of Nigerians, NANS in a statement by its president, Lucky Emonefe, urged the University Management of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike to reconsider its decision and find alternative solutions that do not discriminate against students based on their financial status.”
It said the policy was worrisome because many students and their families are currently facing financial challenges and may not be able to afford the full payment at once.
NANS noted that by denying students the opportunity to take their exams, their academic future is jeopardized, which contradicts the principle of equal access to education.
The student body called on the Minister of Education, to wade into the matter and ensure that all tertiary institutions in the country adhered to fair and inclusive policies regarding school fees and exams.”
The statement reads in part, “Education is crucial for our nation’s development, and it is essential that every student has equal opportunity to succeed.
“This policy is worrisome because many students and their families are currently facing financial challenges and may not be able to afford the full payment at once. By denying them the opportunity to take their exams, their academic future is jeopardized, which contradicts the principle of equal access to education.
“Education is a fundamental right, and every student should have the opportunity to excel academically regardless of their financial situation. Imposing such unfair conditions during exams not only undermines fairness but also obstructs the goal of providing quality education.
“We urge the University Management of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike to reconsider their decision and find alternative solutions that do not discriminate against students based on their financial status.
