By our Reporter
Indications have emerged that authorities at University of Lagos, Akoka (UNILAG) may be planning to impose a fresh school fees increase on students at any moment from now.
The alarm of the potential new fee hike was raised in a statement issued on Sunday by a group under the appellation of Students Solidarity Group Against Fee Hike (SSG).
The group, who berated the development, warned UNILAG management not to dare students to take action in response to the impending increase.
Lamenting about previous increment, the group claimed that several students were forced to drop out due to the exorbitant fees despite the bold assurances of the Vice-chancellor.
The statement fully read, “Our attention at the Students Solidarity Group Against Fee Hike has been drawn to the plot of another fee hike at the University of Lagos. This proposed increment is coming on the heels of the draconian fee regime that was imposed on the student populace last session. In previous negotiations last year, the management denied any possible fee increase in the future for at least five years. This recent development not only undermines their credibility but also highlights their disregard for the plight of students.
“The indigent package implemented following the last fee hike proved to be inadequate in the face of the hostile economic conditions resulting from the neoliberal policies of the Tinubu APC regime. Countless students were forced to drop out due to the exorbitant fees despite the bold assurances of the Vice Cancellor that no UNILAG student would drop out. Many students have been pauperised, resorting to begging on the streets just to sustain their academic life.
“While students are still grappling with the devastating consequences of the previous fee hike, the Prof-Folasade led management is now plotting to inflict further financial hardship. It is important to note that the previous fee hike, despite promises of improved living and learning conditions, failed to deliver on these commitments, which again highlights the dubious nature of the management.
“In fact, the recent distribution of a survey form by the management before the proposed fee increment, seeking feedback on the academic experience of students is a response to the growing students’ consciousness on campus and they are now treading with caution this time around trying to manipulate public perception.
“We want to send a clear message to the university management: do not dare students to take action. The students of UNILAG have demonstrated their resilience and determination in the past, and we will not hesitate to use all available means to protect our rights and interests! The commercialisation of education is a threat to our future, and we will not stand idly by while it continues.”
Meanwhile, efforts to confirm the veracity of the speculation were unsuccessful as calls made to the Dean of Students’ Affairs, Prof Obalola, were not connecting. Also, messages sent to his Whatsapp line were yet to be responded to as at the time of filing this report.