The Federal Government has taken a firm stance against the imposition of tuition fees in federal universities across the nation. This declaration was reinforced by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, David Adejo, during a public hearing convened by the House of Representatives ad hoc committee on student loans.
Expressing concern over recent fee hikes initiated by some federal universities, Adejo emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to affordable higher education. He decried the regrettable surge in charges and stressed that federal universities must adhere to the no-tuition policy.
The issue of tuition fees gained further attention with the dissolution of the Governing Council of the University Board by the president. In light of this, the University of Lagos sought approval from the Ministry of Education to increase its tuition fees, citing the need to cover various expenses such as accommodation, ICT services, and power supply.
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The university, having endorsed the student loan act, proposed this fee adjustment, a matter that had traditionally fallen under the jurisdiction of the governing council. However, the House of Representatives intervened by passing a resolution that curbs the fee increments and enforces the president’s directive to halt further hikes nationwide.
Adejo clarified that claims linking the student loan act to fee increases were unfounded. He pointed out that despite the charges, universities continued to grapple with financial constraints, prompting the need for additional funding avenues.
The launch of the student loans scheme for the 2023/2024 academic year is on the horizon, with the necessary groundwork being put in place. President Bola Tinubu has mandated that all requisite procedures be finalized to facilitate the scheme’s implementation by September.
Highlighting the significance of the student loan program, committee chairman Teseer Ugbor stated that it forms part of the federal government’s initiatives to alleviate the challenges faced by Nigerians and expand access to higher education. However, Ugbor expressed reservations about loan distribution methods, repayment mechanisms, and the potential exclusion of certain students.
Ugbor called for constructive dialogue to amend the law and ensure the eligibility of all Nigerian students seeking the loan. The goal remains to make quality education attainable for every motivated Nigerian, while addressing concerns surrounding loan disbursement and recovery.