UNILAG parents protest mattress demand

Parents of students at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) are protesting the institution’s demand for students to bring their own mattresses when they resume later this month.

This comes amid a recent increase in tuition, hostel, and other fees.

Parents call it a downgrade

A parent who spoke to Vanguard on condition of anonymity said that UNILAG is becoming a secondary school where students are asked to come to school with their own beddings.

The parent called it unbelievable, given that the university has just increased tuition and hostel fees.

UNILAG says mattress demand is for health reasons

However, the Head of the Information Unit of the varsity, Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem, has clarified that the decision for students to resume with their mattresses and some other personal items is due to health reasons.

Alaga-Ibraheem noted that students bringing beds to the hostel is not a new practice; notwithstanding, the institution is also working on renovating various hostels.

University justifies mattress demand

Alaga-Ibraheem said that the management is mindful of the welfare of the students, and that they are making all efforts to make their stay on campus comfortable.

She also said that N65,000, for instance, as a hostel fee for a year is not expensive going by what people pay for private accommodation.

Parents express concerns

Despite the university’s explanation, parents still have some concerns. They argue that the hostel fees should be enough for the school to provide mattresses and other basic amenities for students. They also worry that the mattress demand is an indication of a decline in the quality of education at UNILAG.

Conclusion

The protest by UNILAG parents highlights the challenges facing students and their families in Nigeria. With rising fees and a declining economy, it is becoming increasingly difficult for students to afford higher education.

It is important to find a solution that is fair to both students and the university.

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