In a recent development, the University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos State, has reportedly implemented a substantial increase in fees for its undergraduate students. The decision, which was communicated through a statement dated July 20, 2023, by the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (UNILAG branch), follows a meeting with the institution’s top management staff.
According to the statement released by the union, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, explicitly stated that fees for UNILAG undergraduate students would be raised. Previously, students paid N19,000, but the new fee structure sets the cost at N190,250 for students studying medicine. For courses that require laboratory and studio usage, students will now have to pay N140,250.
The SSANU further revealed that during the meeting, which took place on Thursday, July 20th, the proposed fees for various categories of undergraduate students were disclosed. Those without lab and studio usage will be required to pay N100,750, while those with lab use will pay N140,250. The College of Medicine students would face the highest increase at N190,250.
In response to a request for a rebate for staff members with children enrolled at the university, a representative from SSANU, Rasaki Yusuf, sought concessions. However, the VC, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, asserted that the new charges were nationally set and couldn’t be modified for specific student categories. As an alternative, Ogunsola offered staff members the option to pay in instalments, with a condition to settle the fees one month before final exams.