The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has voiced strong disapproval of the National Examination Council’s (NECO) recently announced N50,000 fee for certificate reprints. This policy has ignited significant backlash from students and their representatives, who are demanding immediate action to alleviate the financial burden on learners.
New NECO Certificate Reprint Fee Sparks Outrage
On September 30, 2024, NECO, through its Registrar Dantani Wushishi, revealed a new policy imposing a N50,000 fee for reprint requests made within one year of the original certificate issuance, with periodic reviews expected.
NANS has condemned this policy, branding it an excessive burden on students amid ongoing economic challenges.
NANS’ Stand on the NECO Policy
Abdulyekinn Odunayo, the NANS clerk of the Senate, expressed dissatisfaction with the new reprint fee, criticizing it as an unjust commercialisation of education. He highlighted that many Nigerian students are already struggling financially, making this fee particularly burdensome.
According to Odunayo, the N50,000 charge is unreasonable and raises questions about NECO’s commitment to supporting education.
NANS Calls for Policy Change
In a strong statement, NANS condemned NECO’s decision, labeling the new fee as outrageous. The student body emphasized that this policy could further exclude many students from accessing their certificates, disproportionately affecting those from less privileged backgrounds and widening the educational gap.
NANS argued that NECO’s actions have undermined its credibility and raised concerns about transparency in fund management.
Demand for Immediate Reversal
NANS reaffirmed its commitment to affordable and accessible education, demanding the immediate withdrawal of the N50,000 fee and its adjustment to a more reasonable amount for all students. They called for an extension of the certificate reprint request period to five years and urged NECO to adopt a more inclusive decision-making process that prioritizes student welfare.
The association made it clear that it will not remain silent while education is treated as a commodity at the expense of students. NANS insists that the fee should revert to its previous amount and has requested a meeting with stakeholders to ensure that future decisions consider student needs.
Conclusion
The recent decision by NECO to impose a N50,000 fee for certificate reprints has ignited a significant uproar among Nigerian students and their representatives. As NANS articulates the collective frustration and financial strain this policy imposes, it is clear that such measures threaten to undermine educational access for many.
The call for a more equitable and inclusive approach to educational policies is paramount to ensure that all students can thrive without the added burden of exorbitant fees. Moving forward, it is crucial for NECO and other stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue with student bodies like NANS, ensuring that the needs and welfare of students remain at the forefront of policy decisions. Only through collaboration can we work towards a fair and accessible education system that upholds the values of equity and opportunity for all Nigerian students.
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