Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University cancels fee hike after student protests

The Vice-Chancellor of Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi (JOSTUM), Isaac Itodo, has canceled a planned hike in undergraduate fees for the 2026/2027 academic year after students raised concerns.

Mr Itodo shared this decision in a statement on his official Facebook page. He said he listened to the students and talked with the relevant university bodies before deciding to cancel the increase.

"Undergraduate school fees for the 2026/2027 academic session will remain unchanged," he stated.

This announcement came as the university started the new academic session on Monday. Students were worried about new charges for some services and the approved academic calendar.

In a separate notice, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Raymond Wuana, said the university reviewed fees for online screening, admission acceptance, health services, hostel accommodation, and postgraduate programs.

He made it clear that this review did not affect undergraduate school fees, which he confirmed had not increased.

"The review concerns only specified services and postgraduate charges," Mr Wuana said in the notice to students.

He explained that the university faces rising costs, more students enrolling, and limited income. This situation made it necessary to adjust some charges to keep important services and facilities running.

Mr Wuana encouraged students with issues to reach out through the university's official channels to talk with management.

Itodo speaks on protest methods

Mr Itodo recognized that students and their parents are under financial pressure. However, he expressed disappointment with how some students protested, including spreading flyers that said, "ITODO MUST GO."

"My dear children, go where? My responsibilities take me across the South Core, Middle Core and North Core of this campus to ensure that our University continues to develop and that you receive quality education," he said.

He added that while students have the right to question decisions and share their worries, they should do so in a respectful way.

"Criticism is welcome; violence, intimidation and actions that threaten our University’s peace and reputation are not," he said. He urged students not to allow themselves to be used to disrupt learning.

Mr Wuana also warned against insults, aggressive behavior, and inflammatory comments aimed at university management. He urged student representatives to formally present their issues and offer practical solutions.

University stands by academic calendar

The university defended its approved academic calendar, which states that classes will resume on 19 October. It also includes an eight-week mid-semester break starting in mid-December 2026, going until after the 2027 general elections.

Mr Wuana noted that the calendar was approved by the University Senate and planned to handle transport, security, and movement issues while keeping academic activities orderly.

Mr Itodo said the decision to resume quickly was to make up for academic time lost to strikes and other delays. He wanted to ensure the session goes smoothly before the 2027 elections.

Both officials asked students to return, finish their registration, and attend classes. They encouraged open communication between students and management.

Mr Itodo reaffirmed that the university is dedicated to improving education and managing resources wisely, adding that undergraduate school fees would stay the same for this session.