The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has expressed its disapproval of the National Examination Council’s (NECO) newly announced N50,000 fee for certificate reprints.
This decision has sparked strong reactions from students and their representatives, calling for immediate change to ease the burden on learners.
New NECO Certificate Reprint Fee Sparks Outrage
On 30 September 2024, NECO announced a new policy through its Registrar, Dantani Wushishi, which set the fee for certificate reprinting at N50,000.
This fee applies to reprint requests made within one year of the original certificate issuance, and it is subject to periodic review.
NANS, reacting to this policy, has condemned it as an excessive burden on students.
NANS’ Stand on the NECO Policy
The NANS clerk of the Senate, Abdulyekinn Odunayo, voiced dissatisfaction with the new reprint fee in a statement.
He described the policy as unfair and criticised it for being an unjust commercialisation of education.
He noted that Nigerian students are facing economic challenges and this fee adds to their financial strain.
Odunayo explained that this N50,000 charge is unreasonable, especially when many students are struggling to make ends meet.
According to NANS, this decision by NECO casts doubt on its dedication to promoting education.
NANS Calls for Policy Change
In the statement, NANS strongly condemned the decision by NECO, labelling the fee as outrageous.
The student body also highlighted how this fee could lead to further exclusion, preventing many students from accessing their certificates.
This fee would impact those from less privileged backgrounds the most, thus creating a wider gap in educational opportunities.
NANS stressed that NECO’s actions have undermined its credibility and raised questions about transparency and responsible fund management.
Demand for Immediate Reversal
NANS reiterated its commitment to affordable and accessible education.
The group demanded that the N50,000 fee be immediately withdrawn and adjusted to an amount within reasonable reach of all students.
They also called for an extension of the certificate reprint request period to five years.
Furthermore, NANS asked for a more inclusive decision-making process that takes student welfare into account.
The association made it clear that it would not remain silent while education becomes a commodity at the expense of students.
The student body has insisted that the fee should not exceed its previous status.
It has also requested a meeting with stakeholders to ensure that decisions are more considerate of student needs.