By Obende Deborah

On the morning of Tuesday, September 19, 2023, a sudden wave of concern swept through the University of Benin community as news broke about a significant increase in school fees for students who had been admitted before the 2022/2023 academic year. This news sent shockwaves through the student body, prompting many to immediately check their Kofa page to verify the startling revelation.

The fee increase appears to impact both science and non-science students. Science students saw their school fees rise from #45,400 to #85,500, while non-science students also experienced a substantial increase, with their fees going up from #41,400 to #81,500. This drastic surge in fees nearing 100% for some has understandably led to widespread discontent among students.

Students across the campus have expressed their frustration and dissatisfaction with the sudden and substantial fee increment. As the university community processes this unexpected announcement, it raises questions about the rationale behind such a substantial increase and how it will impact students’ academic pursuits.

Moreover, students are growing increasingly concerned due to the timing of this school fees increment. With less than one week remaining until the students’ resumption, there’s anticipation that the school portal will soon open for students who wish to secure hostel accommodations. Those interested in staying in school hostels have also voiced their displeasure, as they need to pay their fees before applying for a hostel space through the school portal, adding to their financial worries.

As students and the university community face uncertainty about their studies and hostel arrangements, a feeling of uneasiness persists throughout the campus.

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