From Maiharaji Altine
Parents of Zamfara State students studying at the Federal University (FUG) Gusau have cried out over the increase in the tuition fees currently being charged by the institution.
They appealed to Governor Dauda Lawal to intervention to enable their wards continue with their studies.
The parents who wrote a letter to Governor Dauda Lawal under the auspices of “Zamfara Concerned Citizens” appealed to the Governor to come to their aid and pay the tuition fees before the situation worsened.
The letter reads in parts as follows:-
“We the Concerned Citizens of this our dear state (Zamfara) hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits”.
“We write to you as concerned citizen and passionate advocates for accessible and quality education in Zamfara State”.
“We bring to your attention a pressing issue that demands your immediate intervention regarding the unjust and alarming increase in tuition fees at the Federal University Gusau (FUG)”.
“The Federal University Gusau, being a center of academic excellence, has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of countless young individuals from our state”.
“However, the recent exorbitant tuition fee hike has sent shockwaves through the students community and their families, jeopardizing the dreams and aspirations of many promising students who come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds”.
“Education is not only a fundamental right but also the bedrock of progress and development for any society”.
“The sudden and substantial increase in tuition fees has placed an unfair burden on students and their families, forcing many to reconsider pursuing higher education altogether”.
“This unfortunate scenario undermines the core principles of equality and inclusiveness that Nigeria as a nation stands for”.
“Your Excellency, we humbly appeal to your sense of compassion and justice to intervene in this matter and address the following concerns:
“Affordability: The steep tuition fee increase contradicts the aim of providing affordable education to the youth of Zamfara State. A reevaluation of the fee structure is necessary to ensure that no deserving student is denied access to education due to financial constraints”.
“Equity : Education should not be a privilege for the affluent but a right for all. The fee hike disproportionately affects students from less privileged backgrounds, widening the gap between the haves and have-nots. We urge you to champion the cause of equity in education”.
“Quality : While we understand the need for adequate resources, it is crucial that any fee adjustment is proportional to the improvements in the quality of education and facilities provided. We request transparency in how these increased funds will be allocated for the betterment of the students’ academic experience”.
“Socioeconomic Development: Accessible education is an investment in the future of Zamfara State. By ensuring that education remains within the reach of all, we contribute to the development of a skilled workforce that can drive economic growth and innovation in the state”.
“Your Excellency, we believe that by intervening in this matter and working towards a fair and equitable solution, you will demonstrate your commitment to the welfare of our youth and the future prosperity of our state. We request your esteemed office to engage with the relevant authorities at Federal University Gusau and find an amicable solution that safeguards the aspirations of our young people”.
“Thank you for your time, consideration, and continued dedication to the betterment of Zamfara State. We remain hopeful that under your leadership, the issue of excessive tuition fees at FUG will be addressed promptly”
