By Asuquo Cletus
Students of the University of Cross River staged a protest on campus against a newly introduced policy that prevents those who have not paid their fees from sitting for examinations.
The policy, tagged “No Fees, No Exams,” has sparked widespread dissatisfaction among students, who argue that it unfairly affects those facing financial difficulties.
On Thursday, the protesters, carrying placards and tree branches, marched across the university campus, hostels, and administrative blocks, chanting slogans demanding the reversal of the policy.
Some of the inscriptions on their placards read: “Education is a Right, Not a Privilege” and “No Fees, No Exams, No Future.”
Speaking on behalf of the protesters, a student leader condemned the university’s decision, saying, “Many students are struggling financially, and this policy puts additional pressure on us. The school should consider alternative solutions instead of blocking students from writing exams.”
One female student, visibly distressed, expressed her frustration, saying, “If nothing is done about this school fees issue, I may have no choice but to go into hook-up. I don’t have any money to pay, and my parents have told me they can’t afford it. Please, beg them to reconsider.”
So far, the university management has not issued an official response, but sources suggest the policy aims to ensure students fulfill their financial obligations.
When contacted for comment, the University Spokesman, Onen Onen, did not respond to calls as of press time.
