Students Disrupt Exams At Michael Okpara University Over Fee Hike

Hundreds of students at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture on Tuesday protested the over 100 per cent hike in the institution’s tuition fees for two consecutive years.

The university administration has implemented a significant fee increase, pushing many students to the brink of financial hardship and sparking outrage. The protest escalated, leading to the halting of examinations amidst demands for a reversal of the hike.

“My parents are farmers,” lamented a final-year student of Agricultural Economics who pleaded anonymity. “This increase is like an extra year of harvest they simply don’t have. How can I continue studying if I have to choose between education and putting food on the table for my siblings?”

The protesters demanded an immediate reversal of the fee hike and accused the university administration of lacking transparency and failure to consult the students. “This is not just about the money,” declared Prince, a 300-level student. “It’s about the principle. We deserve a say in decisions that affect our future, and this blatant disregard for our concerns is unacceptable.”

University officials, however, defended the fee increase, citing rising operational costs and the need to improve facilities and academic resources. In a brief address earlier this semester, Vice Chancellor Professor M. O. Iwe emphasised the administration’s commitment to providing quality education but acknowledged the financial challenges some students face. He offered limited financial aid options and promised to explore alternative funding sources.

Students remain sceptical. “Promises are not enough,” retorted Chinonso, a second-year student of Engineering. “We need concrete action, not empty words. This fee hike is pushing many of us out, and if it’s not addressed, the future of education in this university looks bleak.”

Adding to the escalating situation, students protested by barricading the school’s main entrance, and halting ongoing examinations. This move signifies their growing frustration and determination to make their voices heard.

According to the school Portal, the specifics of the fee hike are as follows:

• Fresh students, returning students, and final-year students for the College of Engineering and Engineering Technology will now pay ₦185,500, ₦127,500, and ₦132,500, respectively.
• Fresh students, returning students, and final-year students for the College of Veterinary Medicine will also pay ₦185,500, ₦127,500, and ₦132,500, respectively.
• Fees for other courses have been increased to ₦185,500, ₦137,500, and ₦137,500, respectively for freshers, returning students, and final-year students.

It is important to note that before this hike, an average student, depending on their department, paid ₦93,000.00 for freshers, ₦56,500.00 for the final year, and ₦50,500 for returning students. This means the new fees represent a significant increase, ranging from 150% to 170% depending on the category of student and course.