UI Postpones Exams as Students Struggle with tuition
UI Extends Break Amid Crowdfunding Efforts as Students Struggle with 500% Tuition Hike
The management of the University of Ibadan(UI) has extended the break for students by three weeks, postponing the first-semester exams to September 23. This extension gives students more time to pay their school fees and complete online registration.
A widespread crowdfunding effort has emerged across various departments in response to the sharp increase in tuition fees. However, many students are still waiting for approval from the student loan scheme. Some students have individually sought crowdfunding online, while organizations such as the National Association of Muslim Students (UI Chapter) have launched emergency fundraising appeals, urging the public to assist students at risk of dropping out due to the financial burden.
Other student groups, including the Faculty of Environmental Design and Management and the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPEUI), have also started similar campaigns to help students in need. The new fees, which have risen by over 500%, now range from N230,000 to N412,000, with a payment deadline of September 20.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) disbursed N201 million in loans last month, covering the fees of 1,370 students. However, many others who applied since May are still waiting for approval. In response, the UI student body has launched an emergency fundraiser to assist around 500 vulnerable students who may lose the academic session if they cannot pay in time. NELFUND is currently in talks with the university to allow students awaiting loan approval to continue their studies.