The University of Ibadan (UI) has announced a three-week break following student protests against a recent tuition fee increase. The decision was communicated through a circular issued by the university's management after a meeting with the Students’ Union leadership on Friday.
The break is intended to allow students time to pay their fees and complete online registration. Consequently, the first semester examinations, initially set to commence on September 2, have been rescheduled to September 23. The management emphasized that the portal for fee payment and course registration will not be reopened after September 20, 2024.
The protests, which began early Friday, have led to the suspension of both academic and non-academic activities across the institution. Students, angered by the Governing Council's approval of the fee increase during a meeting on Thursday, took to the streets, ensuring that no lectures or other scheduled activities took place. The Kennedy Dike Library, the university's main library, along with other facilities, were also affected as students prevented access in protest.
The situation at UI remains tense as students continue to express their dissatisfaction with the fee hike, prompting the administration to take measures aimed at restoring order and addressing the concerns raised.
