Students from various tertiary institutions in Imo State, including the Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), Imo State University Owerri (IMSU), Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education Owerri, Federal Polytechnic Nekede Owerri, and Imo State University of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (UAES) Umuagwo, Ohaji,on Friday took to the streets to protest against the recent surge in tuition fees and deteriorating living conditions on campuses.
The protesters, representing a cross-section of the student body, voiced their grievances against exorbitant tuition fees, substandard education quality, dilapidated infrastructure, inadequate facilities, and rampant extortion and intimidation within their institutions.
They demanded immediate intervention from both the Federal and State Governments to halt the continuous escalation of tuition fees and put an end to arbitrary financial demands, such as excessive handouts and textbook costs.
Furthermore, the students called upon the authorities to prioritize the enhancement of learning environments by providing essential amenities like electricity, boreholes for clean water supply, and adequate medical facilities.
They emphasized the crucial role of these factors in fostering a conducive atmosphere for learning and nurturing moral values among students.
Highlighting the broader socioeconomic challenges faced by students, the protesters lamented the soaring cost of living, fueled by exorbitant school fees and insufficient accommodation options.
They attributed the prevailing hardship in Imo State to the government’s flawed economic policies, inadequate infrastructure, and soaring unemployment rates.
In their plea to the government, the students urged the formulation and implementation of people-centric policies aimed at alleviating the pervasive suffering, hunger, and poverty experienced by students across the state.
Addressing the gathering, Valentine Nzubechi, Vice President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), offered reassurance that the concerns and demands of the students would not be overlooked by the Federal and State governments.
He pledged the commitment of the authorities to address the pressing issues raised by the students and work towards improving the overall quality of education in the state.
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