STUDENT FEE INCREMENT: FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC IDAH MANAGEMENT ENGAGES EXPANDED STUDENT LEADERSHIP, PROVIDES CLARIFICATION

The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic Idah, Dr. Yahaya Baba Usman, yesterday held an expanded interactive meeting with the leadership of the student community and the Top Management Committee (TMC) of the Polytechnic. The meeting which was held at the Multipurpose Hall brought together the Students Union Government (SUG) Executive Council, Tribal heads, Departmental Executives, Class Representatives and the National Association of Kogi State Students (NAKOSS) Executive.

The main agenda of the meeting was to address concerns and agitations trailing the recent adjustment in school fees as a result of the introduction of compulsory medical fitness and X-ray examination for students. The new medical policy had led to a slight increment in the overall payable fees, generating questions among the student body

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Addressing the expanded student assembly, Dr. Usman, flanked by members of the TMC, took time to explain in detail the rationale behind the management's decision. He stated that the introduction of the medical fitness and X-ray screening was not intended as a burden, but as a proactive health and safety measure in the best interest of the students and the Polytechnic community at large. According to him, the management observed the need to ascertain the health status of students to prevent outbreak of communicable diseases and to promote a healthy learning environment.

The Rector further noted that the cost of conducting comprehensive medical examinations in reputable and accredited facilities necessitated the fee adjustment. He emphasized that his administration would never introduce any policy that would inflict hardship on students, stressing that every decision taken under his leadership is guided by the welfare of students and the overall development of the institution.

After extensive deliberations and clarifications, the Expanded Student Assembly expressed satisfaction with the explanation provided by the management and agreed with the new policy on the increment. They however used the opportunity to appeal to the management to improve on other amenities on campus, including water supply, power, and lecture facilities, to further enhance students' welfare and learning conditions.

Responding to their appeals, Dr. Usman assured the student leaders that the management under his leadership will not relent in its efforts until their legitimate demands are addressed accordingly. He reiterated his commitment to an all-inclusive administration where students are seen as critical stakeholders in the development agenda of the Polytechnic.

On the issue of the high level of vandalization of Polytechnic property on campus, the Rector charged the expanded student assembly to be vigilant and to take ownership of facilities provided for their use. He urged them to promptly report any act of vandalism or suspicious criminal activities within and outside the Polytechnic community to appropriate authorities for necessary action.

In his vote of thanks, the SUG President, Comr. Agada Daniel Ojochokobi, described Dr. Usman as a "student-friendly Rector" and commended him for his fatherly advice and open-door policy. He applauded the Rector for the visible infrastructural and academic development the institution has witnessed since his assumption of office and pledged the unalloyed support and cooperation of the entire student body to the management.

S .S. Omale

Head, Public Relations & Protocol