By: Idden Pen
The Polytechnic, Ibadan, is facing widespread student dissatisfaction following what many describe as a broken promise regarding the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).
In the first semester, the institution encouraged all students to apply for the NELFUND loan, stating that it would cover tuition and other essential fees. Students were informed that participation in examinations would be based on evidence of a successful NELFUND application.
Initially, this announcement was met with relief and enthusiasm, and many students promptly applied for the loan. Some departments conducted exams for students based solely on NELFUND application approval, while others required proof of fee payment before students were allowed to participate.
However, on May 12, 2025, during the fifth week of the second semester, the school Management released a memo mandating that all students who applied for the loan must pay their school fees on or before May 18, or risk paying a late registration fee. Students were also warned that they might lose access to their course registrations on the portal if payments were not made promptly.
This abrupt change has left many students distressed and scrambling to find funds they believed would be covered by the loan.
“I had told my parents not to worry about my school fees because of NELFUND,” said one student. “Now I don’t even know how to explain to them that we need to find the money before May 18, It’s very unfair.”
Another student added, “Honestly, I’m afraid I might have to drop out. I used the money meant for school fees on other pressing needs because I thought the loan would cover everything.”
The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Management has promised that any fees paid by students will be refunded once NELFUND disburses the funds to the institution. Still, students remain uncertain and fearful about their academic future.
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What of those that paid 60% of the school fees last semester. Are we also affected by these memo?
To be candid, these came as impromptu. The school authority should give us enough time to get the money. Is not easy, especially for we students funding ourselves.