The National Association of Academic Technologists has expressed worry about the recent 200 percent rise in fees at federal universities, stating that it could result in students abandoning their education.
NAAT also opposed the dissolution of Universities Governing Boards and urged the Federal Government to reinstate the dissolved boards.
These concerns were outlined in a statement issued by NAAT President, Comrade Ibeji Nwokoma, following the conclusion of the association’s 52nd National Executive Council meeting.
The statement was made available to journalists in Abuja on Sunday.
Expressing discontent with the recent increase in tuition fees at tertiary institutions, the association remarked, “NAAT is worried and concerned too with the recent development regarding the increase in fees and charges in our Federal Institutions, particularly Universities.
“This development may compel many of our students to drop out of school, occasioned by the current economic hardship facing parents and lack of adequate resources to meet up with economic demands.
“We are aware that over 200% increase in fees and charges are now being imposed by Universities authorities. NAAT, therefore, appeals to the government to consider the plight of the poor and rescind the decision by returning to the status quo until the loan issue is properly addressed.”
The association further stated that the dissolution of the governing boards of universities would hinder the progress and advancement of Nigeria’s Tertiary Education.
The union contended that this dissolution would severely impact the functioning of the country’s tertiary institutions, particularly in crucial aspects such as promotion, motivation, welfare, contracts, project documentation, and the availability of laboratory facilities for practical work and research.
