ASUU President Warns of Potential Mass University Dropouts Due to Tuition Hikes; Emmanuel Osodeke, the President of ASUU, Raises Alarm. In a candid warning, Emmanuel Osodeke, the President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), has voiced concerns about the possibility of a significant dropout rate among Nigerian university students.
GAIN ADMISSION INTO ANY NIGERIAN UNIVERSITY WITHOUT JAMB – REGISTER FOR IJMB TODAY
The reason behind this alarming prediction is the persistent increase in tuition fees across Nigerian universities.
The Stark Warning
Mr. Osodeke delivered this stark warning during an interview on Channels TV, where he discussed the current state of Nigeria’s education sector. He emphasized that the substantial fees imposed on students by their respective universities could lead to a substantial dropout rate, as many students may find it impossible to afford their tuition.
He stated, “If nothing is done about these heavy fees being introduced by schools all over the country, in the next two or three years, more than 40 to 50 per cent of these children who are in school today will drop out.”
Potential National Crisis
Mr. Osodeke also pointed out that if his prediction comes to pass, it could result in a national crisis. The students who drop out due to financial constraints may become susceptible to external influences seeking to destabilize the country.
He urged the government to create an educational environment reminiscent of the 1960s and 1970s when education was more accessible. During this period, the government provided financial support to students. Mr. Osodeke stressed the disparity between school fees, which can reach as high as N300,000, and the income of parents who earn around N50,000 per month.
ASUU’s Proposals
To address this issue, Mr. Osodeke called upon the federal government to allocate 15 percent of the total budget to education. Such an increase in funding would help alleviate the burden of high tuition fees on parents and ensure that education remains accessible to all.
Regarding the government’s student loan policy, Mr. Osodeke expressed doubts about its effectiveness and called for a comprehensive review. He suggested that, rather than labeling it a loan, it should be termed a grant to better serve the needs of students.
ASUU’s Ongoing Advocacy
This warning from ASUU’s President comes as part of the union’s ongoing advocacy for affordable and accessible education. In July, Mr. Osodeke advised taking a holistic approach and implementing people-centered policies to address the challenges created by tuition fee hikes. Moreover, in early September, the University of Lagos reduced its fees following negotiations with representatives of the National Association of Nigerian Students.
The warning underscores the urgency of addressing the issue of tuition fees to ensure that higher education remains a viable option for all aspiring students in Nigeria.
Did you enjoy the read? ASUU President Warns of Potential Mass University Dropouts Due to Tuition Hikes
