Nigeria has halted new private university approvals for a year, starting February 10, while reviewing relevant regulations. Existing applications will still be processed if they meet certain criteria. Additionally, application and processing fees have seen a significant increase, impacting future private university applicants, amidst persistent strikes in public universities that drive students to seek alternative higher education.
The Nigerian government has announced a suspension on the approval of new private universities for one year. This decision, effective February 10, allows the National Universities Commission (NUC) to review existing regulations regarding the establishment of private institutions. Applications already in progress will be evaluated if they have surpassed the initial stage, ensuring compliance with the necessary requirements.
In conjunction with the suspension, the government has significantly increased the fees associated with applying for a private university. The application fee has risen from N1 million ($665) to N5 million ($3,325), while the processing fee has escalated from N5 million ($3,325) to N25 million ($16,626). Individuals who have previously acquired application forms will be required to pay the new processing fee within 30 working days to prevent their applications from being annulled.
The emergence of private universities in Nigeria has largely been attributed to strikes disrupting public universities, driving students towards alternative educational opportunities. Nonetheless, public universities continue to dominate by admitting approximately 90% of all applicants. The first private institutions were established in 1999 and have since proliferated in response to the rising demand for tertiary education.
In summary, Nigeria’s suspension of new private university approvals and the substantial increase in application fees aim to reassess the regulatory framework governing these institutions. This decision reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring quality in higher education while addressing concerns about the increasing number of private universities. The ongoing reliance on public universities remains predominant despite the rise of private options.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
