The Vice Chancellor of Rivers State University, Professor Zeb Obipi, has explained that the recent increase in convocation fees was necessary to enable the institution meet its financial obligations and operate effectively.
Speaking in an interview, Professor Obipi stated that the decision was not taken unilaterally, as the leadership of the students’ union was consulted before the new rates were announced.
Initially, the fees were pegged at ₦97,000 for first degree graduates, ₦145,000 for master’s, and ₦220,000 for doctorate degree graduates. However, following protests from parents and civil society groups, the university management reconvened with the students’ union and agreed on a downward review.
The revised rates now stand at ₦60,000 for first degree, ₦68,000 for master’s, ₦125,000 for professional master’s, and ₦210,000 for doctorate graduates.
