Education
Ondo varsity students protest surge in tuition fees
Written By: Udo Inobeme
03 Nov 2025 05:37 AM
Akungba-Akoko, Ondo – Students of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), an institution owned by Ondo State, have taken to the streets in protest against a recent increase in tuition fees, particularly affecting new students ahead of the 2025/2026 academic session.
The demonstration highlights growing discontent over what the Students’ Union Government (SUG) has labeled an "abrupt and thoughtless" fee hike.
In a statement released over the weekend, the SUG voiced its frustration with the decision.
The document, co-signed by SUG President Salami Akeem, General Secretary Bakare Jamiu Abiodun, and Public Relations Officer Mosadoluwa Ajidaba, noted that the fee increase has plunged many students—especially those funding their education independently—into "fear and dismay."
“We are fully aware of the tuition fee escalation, which has caused significant distress, particularly among self-sponsored students,” the statement read, noting, “Recognizing that not all students come from privileged backgrounds, we are actively engaging in consultations to push for a reduction in these exorbitant fees.”
The SUG has advised students, especially freshmen, to refrain from making payments or initiating registration until negotiations with the university management produce favorable outcomes.
The university administration, undeterred by the protests, has outlined its plans for the upcoming session.
In a statement from Registrar Mr. Olugbenga Arajulu, the institution confirmed that the 2025/2026 academic session will commence on November 9. The schedule includes a phased approach to registration and lectures, with online screening and registration for both new and returning students set for November 9 to 15.
Physical resumption and faculty-specific course orientations are scheduled from November 16 to 22, followed by the start of lectures on November 23.
The first semester is planned to span 19 weeks, incorporating two weeks for resumption and registration, 12 weeks of lectures, one week for revision, and four weeks for examinations.
Arajulu emphasized the importance of adhering to the academic calendar and urged students to settle their fees promptly to ensure a seamless academic process.
The standoff between the students and management comes as the session’s start date approaches, raising concerns about potential disruptions.
The SUG’s call for a payment boycott could complicate the university’s preparations, especially as the institution pushes forward with its outlined timeline.
The demonstration highlights growing discontent over what the Students’ Union Government (SUG) has labeled an "abrupt and thoughtless" fee hike.
In a statement released over the weekend, the SUG voiced its frustration with the decision.
The document, co-signed by SUG President Salami Akeem, General Secretary Bakare Jamiu Abiodun, and Public Relations Officer Mosadoluwa Ajidaba, noted that the fee increase has plunged many students—especially those funding their education independently—into "fear and dismay."
“We are fully aware of the tuition fee escalation, which has caused significant distress, particularly among self-sponsored students,” the statement read, noting, “Recognizing that not all students come from privileged backgrounds, we are actively engaging in consultations to push for a reduction in these exorbitant fees.”
The SUG has advised students, especially freshmen, to refrain from making payments or initiating registration until negotiations with the university management produce favorable outcomes.
The university administration, undeterred by the protests, has outlined its plans for the upcoming session.
In a statement from Registrar Mr. Olugbenga Arajulu, the institution confirmed that the 2025/2026 academic session will commence on November 9. The schedule includes a phased approach to registration and lectures, with online screening and registration for both new and returning students set for November 9 to 15.
Physical resumption and faculty-specific course orientations are scheduled from November 16 to 22, followed by the start of lectures on November 23.
The first semester is planned to span 19 weeks, incorporating two weeks for resumption and registration, 12 weeks of lectures, one week for revision, and four weeks for examinations.
Arajulu emphasized the importance of adhering to the academic calendar and urged students to settle their fees promptly to ensure a seamless academic process.
The standoff between the students and management comes as the session’s start date approaches, raising concerns about potential disruptions.
The SUG’s call for a payment boycott could complicate the university’s preparations, especially as the institution pushes forward with its outlined timeline.
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