UNILAG Stands Firm On Fee Increase Due To Rising Operational Costs
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In a recent virtual press briefing on September 9, 2023, Folasade Ogunsola, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, UNILAG, addressed the institution’s decision to maintain increased fees, citing the mounting operational expenses as the driving factor, Readership NG reports.
Ogunsola clarified that reverting the fees was not feasible, as a committee had thoroughly reviewed the university’s expenditures, resulting in the necessity for the fee adjustment. She revealed that UNILAG’s annual electricity bill alone stands at approximately N1.7 billion, and examination costs have quadrupled in the past year. These rising expenses have compelled the university to seek additional funds to sustain its daily operations.
Emphasizing the importance of quality education, Ogunsola stated, “To maintain high-quality education standards, we have no alternative but to raise fees. Quality education comes at a cost, and someone has to bear that cost. If the government requests a reversal, we will comply.”
Ogunsola also pointed out that UNILAG had not increased fees for 15 years, resulting in a considerable financial challenge due to accumulated overhead costs. The university spends between N100 million to N200 million annually on accreditation and over N500 million on various services, which cannot be entirely covered by internally generated revenue.
She acknowledged the economic challenges facing the country, including the university, due to the increased cost of living. Ogunsola commended the government’s support in covering staff costs and infrastructure through TETFund. However, she stressed that the university must handle its operational expenses.
Regarding financially disadvantaged students, Ogunsola assured that no one would be forced to drop out of school. The university introduced installment payment options and increased wages for its work and study program participants to alleviate the financial burden. UNILAG is also collaborating with the Lagos State government to reduce transportation costs for students.
Addressing the recent student protests, the Vice-Chancellor expressed support for peaceful demonstrations as a means for students to voice their concerns constructively. She emphasized that no students would face sanctions as the protests remained non-violent.
In terms of the revised fees, Ogunsola outlined the new fee structure: N126,325 for new students in non-laboratory courses, N176,325 for new students in laboratory courses, N100,750 for returning students in non-laboratory courses, N140,250 for returning students in laboratory courses, and N190,250 for medical students. These adjustments aim to support UNILAG’s position as a leading energy-consuming and technology-driven institution, fostering global competitiveness among its students.
