The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has expressed its readiness to engage in discussions and partnerships with various stakeholders to alleviate the challenges currently facing the institution. This commitment was emphasized in a press release issued by the Head of the Communication Unit at UNILAG, Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem, on Thursday in Lagos.
The statement comes on the heels of protests that erupted on campus in response to an increase in students’ fees, which necessitated police intervention to restore calm and normalcy.
In the official statement, Alaga-Ibraheem assured members of the university community that their welfare and interests remain a top priority for UNILAG’s management. She stated, “The management will stop at nothing to ensure that the welfare and interests of our students and other stakeholders are always protected.”
In response to the recent upward review of the institution’s obligatory fees, UNILAG is implementing several measures aimed at easing the financial burden on students and their parents or guardians. These measures include the introduction of an installment payment option, allowing fees to be paid in three installments before the end of the academic year.
For further details on the installment payment option and its procedures, stakeholders can visit UNILAG’s official website here.
UNILAG has also revitalized its ‘Work-Study Program’ to provide increased remuneration opportunities for students. Interested students can access the program through the Dean of the Student Affairs Division.
In addition to these efforts, UNILAG is offering scholarship opportunities, including the UNILAG Scholars Award for exceptionally brilliant students, which can be accessed through the office of the Dean of Student Affairs Division. The university is also launching an initiative to provide assistance to indigent students, supported by donor-partners. This initiative will encompass financial aid, meal tickets, and raw food items and can be accessed through the Dean of Student Affairs Division.
The ‘Triple A Project’ has been introduced, allowing alumni and well-meaning Nigerians to adopt a student, thereby contributing to their education and well-being.
Furthermore, UNILAG has initiated the ‘Pay for Mentors Project’ to support outstanding students who serve as mentors to others, offering them adequate remuneration.
To enhance transportation options for students, UNILAG has partnered with the Lagos Bus Rapid Transport System. The university has obtained approval from the Lagos State government for a dedicated BRT route for individuals coming from the Berger Bus Stop area, with discussions ongoing to include routes from Oshodi and Iyana Ipaja.
UNILAG authorities emphasized their willingness to engage in dialogue and partnerships with stakeholders to address the institution’s challenges effectively. Various platforms are available for students and the university community to voice their concerns and facilitate swift complaint resolution.
While students are currently on vacation, they are encouraged to continue directing their grievances to the Dean of Student Affairs, the designated official empowered to interact with students.
UNILAG remains committed to fulfilling its mandate and ensuring the welfare of its community members, as reiterated by Alaga-Ibraheem in the statement.