In the midst of economic hardship gripping the country, the lecturers and management of College of Nursing, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital in Nnewi, have chosen to add to their students’ misery by imposing a mandatory payment of N70,000 per student as an “appreciation” for the lecturers.
According to a notice sent to the third-year class group, the N70,000 payment is a requirement for students to be eligible to write their Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) exam.
Below is the notice:
“I wish to inform all 2021A third-year students that it is compulsory to pay the sum of N70,000 for NMC exam fees/expenses and staff appreciation. Please make this payment to your class representative via bank transfer (no cash accepted). If you have any outstanding debts, make sure to clear them. This payment is a criterion for your eligibility to write your NMC exam. Note: Students should make alternative transportation arrangements for the three-day exam period.”
The message also clarified that the payment is not for NMC registration, and students are required to register for the examination themselves.
With the deadline fast approaching, many students are struggling to raise the fee, leading to widespread discontent.
Further investigation has confirmed that students from their affiliate, National Open University, are also mandated to pay the sum of N35,000.
While the exams are scheduled to begin on May 7th, 2024, concerns are being raised about the level of exploitation occurring in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.
A student, who requested anonymity due to fear of reprisal, expressed her concerns. She stated that despite the intimidation and exploitation, students are afraid to speak up because they have been threatened with license seizure.
She accused the principal, Mrs. Aralu J. C, of exploiting the students despite the harsh economic reality in the country.
It has been discovered that the class consists of 64 students, each required to pay N70,000, resulting in a total amount to be collected from students reaching N4,480,000.
Another student, whose name is withheld, confirmed this payment to NewdayReporters. According to the student, the money is primarily for staff appreciation.
An interview with a student from the affiliate, National Open University, confirms the extortion, highlighting a troubling trend in Nigeria’s education sector.
Despite calls for intervention to stop student intimidation and exploitation, universities like the College of Nursing, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, continue to exploit students for personal gain.
The affected students urge the government, relevant authorities, and concerned citizens to urgently intervene in order to protect Nigerian students.
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