Protest by students of Edo state-owned Ambrose Alli university (AAU), Ekpoma, on Friday continued the second day at the institution’s entrance gate protesting alleged 75 percent hike in tuition fee.
The students protest which begun on Thursday has reportedly disrupted academic and administative activities in the institution.
A student of the faculty of medical science who simply identified herself as Nneka, said this is the second time the institution is increasing school fees during her time in the University.
Nneka said: “My tuition is #206,000. But on Wednesday the school management announced additional #100,000- taking my tuition to #306,000.
“And apparently because we protested on Thursday, this morning (Friday), they announced additional #50,000- taking my tuition fee to #356,000.
“Besides, there are sundry levies we pay. The burden is too much for our parents. If nothing is done many students will drop out of school.
“It’s unfortunate that the school management are not willing to consider our plight. They said those who can’t pay should drop out of school,” Nneka added.
The Head, Corporate Communications & Protocol of the varsity, Otunba Mike Ade Aladenika said the tuition adjustment was for “only 100 level, Direct Entry students and sundry charges for returning students”.
Otunba added that the decision to adjust the fees was reached after a meeting with National Association of Nigeria Students (NANS) in Benin City.
While noting that the tuition increment was not as astronomical as the students claim, the spokesman challenge them (students) to produce evidence of the alleged increment under reference.
