LoadedMore brings you an update on recent developments concerning tuition fee negotiations at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH). After extensive discussions led by Comrade Tiamiyu Ibraheem Olayinka, Vice President (Southwest) of the National Association of University Students (NAUS), a revised tuition fee structure has been agreed upon between student representatives and LAUTECH’s management.
Tuition Fee Negotiations and Outcome
The negotiations initially centered on a proposed 170% hike, amounting to ₦283,500 for indigene students and ₦351,000 for non-indigene students. However, NAUS Southwest, in collaboration with NAUS CMC Oyo, NANS JCC, and other student leaders, succeeded in significantly reducing this proposed increment. The adjusted fees now stand at ₦168,000 for indigenes and ₦204,000 for non-indigenes—a 60% increase from the current rates, limited to 300 to 600 level students.
Comrade Tiamiyu noted, “While this outcome is not fully reflective of our initial goals, external economic factors influenced the final structure. This is an achievement in easing the burden on students and their families.”
Encouragement for Financial Support Options
Acknowledging the challenges posed by the increment, the NAUS Southwest office encourages students to consider alternative financial options, such as student loans, to ease any strain on personal finances. They emphasize that the new fee structure was a necessary compromise amidst current economic realities.
Revival of the LAUTECH Student Union
In addition to the tuition discussions, NAUS Southwest advocated for the reinstatement of LAUTECH’s Student Union, which has been inactive for an extended period. The management has now agreed to revive the Student Union, with elections anticipated in the first semester of the 2024/2025 academic session. This move is seen as a pivotal step in empowering students to have a direct platform for voicing their concerns and promoting student welfare.
Statement from NAUS Southwest
Comrade Tiamiyu reiterated NAUS Southwest’s commitment to student welfare, stating, “Our office in no way fully endorses this increment. However, we recognize it as an unavoidable measure given the current economic climate. We will continue to prioritize the welfare of our members and remain open to dialogue.”
The leadership of NAUS Southwest has expressed appreciation to the student body for their resilience and support during these negotiations. As they await the upcoming student union elections, NAUS Southwest remains optimistic that this will lead to more constructive engagement between students and management.
Conclusion
LoadedMore commends the efforts of NAUS Southwest in achieving a more manageable fee structure for LAUTECH students and advocating for the revival of the Student Union. This collaborative achievement highlights the power of student representation in driving positive change.
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