LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-Baze University, Abuja, has announced that come May, 2024 it will increase its school fee by 35 per cent and hostel fee by 100 per cent.
The private university also announced other increments.
The announcement has stirred controversy as the institution faces condemnation from the student body over its decision.
In a circular issued by the University titled “Increase in Tuition Fees,” signed by the Deputy Registrar and Acting Dean of Student Affairs, Kehinde Adekeye the university said that the decision came about as a response to several factors, including the persistent increase in the cost of goods and services, the necessity to offer competitive salaries and benefits to staff, and efforts to ensure compliance with government regulations and accreditation standards.
It read: “I am directed to inform you that careful consideration and assessment of various factors such as the astronomical rise in the cost of goods and services, provision of competitive salaries and benefits, compliance efforts with government regulations and accreditation standards and general economic downturns, the university management has decided to implement the following fees adjustment as approved by the University governing Council, effective May 2024:
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“Tuition Fees- 35%increase for all students; hostel fees- 100% increase; feeding charges- at parent’s discretion; laundry charges- 25% increase; internship (SIWES) Fees- 35% increase.
“Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we strive to uphold the standards of excellence at our Institution.”
Following the announcement of the new fees by Baze University, a swift reaction has emerged urging the university’s management to reconsider its decision. A petition addressed to the Pro Chancellor of the University, submitted through the office of the Dean by student affairs Onemena Odebala on behalf of others, has described the fee increment as not only “unjustifiable but also deeply burdensome to the student community.”
The petition reads: The petition read: “We, the undersigned students of Baze University, bring forth this petition to express our strong opposition to the recent fee increases announced by the university administration.
“It is with great concern and dissatisfaction that we have learned of the significant increments in school fees, laundry charges, internship fees (SIWES), and hostel fees.
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“The unilateral decision to impose a 35% increase in school fees, 25% increase in laundry charges, and a staggering 100% increment in hostel fees is not only unjustifiable but also deeply burdensome to the student community.
“As stakeholders in our education and living conditions, we refuse to accept such exorbitant hikes without adequate justification and consideration of our welfare.
“The timing of these increases exacerbates the hardship faced by students, many of whom already struggle to meet the existing financial obligations of their education.
“Moreover, the lack of transparency and consultation in the decision-making process is a clear violation of the principles of fair governance and accountability.
“Furthermore, it is imperative to highlight the deplorable state of amenities within the university hostel. Despite the exorbitant fees charged for accommodation, students are deprived of basic necessities such as steady water supply, clean toilets, and consistent electricity.
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“The male hostel residents endure regular power outages due to malfunctioning generators, while female students contend with dysfunctional toilets. We assert that such conditions are unacceptable and do not warrant any increase in fees.
“Instead of burdening students with additional financial obligations, the university administration should prioritise addressing these fundamental issues to ensure a conducive living and learning environment for all.”
Considering the points mentioned above, Odebala further stated: “Additionally, we highlight the current economic situation in our country, where fluctuating exchange rates and challenging economic conditions make it impossible for students to bear additional financial burdens.
“Therefore, we respectfully demand the following actions:
“Immediate suspension of the proposed fee increases until a comprehensive review involving student representatives is conducted; transparent communication regarding the rationale behind the fee adjustments and a breakdown of how the additional funds will be utilised; urgent measures to improve the living conditions within the university hostel including the provision of essential amenities and maintenance services.
“Establishment of a dialogue platform between the university administration and student body to address grievances and concerns in a collaborative manner.
“We, the students of Baze University, hereby affix our signatures to this petition as a testament to our collective dissent and determination to advocate for fairness, transparency, and accountability in university governance.”