The National Association of Nigerian Students has threatened to picket Gombe State University following the 120 per cent tuition hike.
To forestall this action, NANS has given Professor Sani Yauta, the acting vice chancellor of the university , a 78-hour ultimatum to reverse the decision.
This directive was conveyed by Senator Mu’azu Hina, the National Vice President, External Affairs of NANS, in a letter obtained by Arewa PUNCH.
According to the directive, “The fee hike is ill-timed, considering the current economic challenges faced by Nigerian parents in providing for their children’s needs.
“We strongly condemn the increment, emphasising that it would exacerbate the financial burden on students and their families.”
While vowing to relocate its secretariat to Gombe State University until the decision is reversed, Hina added, “We will not back down until the university reverses this decision. The welfare and interests of students should be the top priority in any decision-making process.”
Hina noted that the recent tuition fee increment has sparked widespread outrage among students, parents, and education stakeholders, stressing that, concerns are rife that the hike would lead to a decline in student enrolment, particularly among those from low-income backgrounds.
Therefore, NANS called on Professor Yauta to engage in constructive dialogue with stakeholders to find alternative solutions to the university’s financial challenges.
“We urge Professor Yauta to reconsider the decision and take into account the long-term implications on the university’s reputation and the welfare of its students,” Hina stated.
