Tuition fee: YABATECH locks gate, moves lecture online amid protest rumours

Yaba College of Technology, (YABATECH), Lagos, has informed both part time and full-time students to stay off-campus until further notice as a planned student protest over tuition fee increase looms.

This was announced in a circular signed by the institution’s registrar, Dr Emmanuel Akinwale, who, however, stressed that learning activities would continue online.

“Due to unforeseen circumstances, College management has decided to reschedule all learning activities, including revisions and registration for part-time examinations, to hold online effective Monday, October 14, 2024.

“Consequently, no part-time or full-time student is expected on campus until further notice.

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“All students are hereby advised to take note of this development and stay off campus until further notice,” the statement reads partly.

It was learnt that the decision was taken by the college to forestall planned protests over school fees increase.

A separate statement, signed by the institution’s Students Union Government (SUG) Vice President, Comr. Lawal Idowu Omotola, highlighted the efforts undertaken by the student body to douse the tension, reiterating their commitment to improving the welfare of the students.

“We understand the challenges you are facing regarding the recent school fee increment. As fellow students, we are fully aware of the financial strain this has caused, especially in these trying times. Please, know that the Student Union Government stands with you, and we are committed to advocating for the best interest of all students,” he said.

He stressed that the students’ union intensified dialogue with the institution’s management has yielded positive outcomes, outlining the breakdown of the tuition fees.

“We successfully negotiated reductions ranging from 30-40% in the first round, and through persistent efforts, further reductions were achieved.

“While these reductions are significant, the steep increase of over 100% initially and the limited timeframe to pay remain pressing issues. With exams just three to four weeks away, many students, especially part-timers, are finding it difficult to gather the required funds in such a short time.

“We, the Student Union Government, are with you through this difficult period and will continue to push for fair solutions. We believe that through dialogue, a mutual understanding can be reached, and your voices will be heard,” he said.