In a recent online post that has garnered significant attention, a Nigerian man by the name of Henry Omoregie shared a fascinating piece of history related to university education in Nigeria. This revelation came in the form of an official tuition fee receipt dating back to 1987, when he attended the Rivers State University of Science and Technology. The most astounding aspect of this receipt was the paltry sum it indicated – a mere 340 Naira for an entire academic session.
This revelation has sent ripples across social media platforms and sparked conversations about the dramatic changes in the cost of education over the years. The stark contrast between the 1987 tuition fee and the current educational expenses is nothing short of astonishing. Omoregie's decision to unveil this relic from the past on a Friday drew attention to the fact that during the same era, the tuition fee at Federal universities across the country was an equally modest 10 Naira.
This glimpse into the past has elicited a sense of nostalgia among many, prompting them to reflect on the evolution of tuition costs in the country. It serves as a stark reminder of a time when education was considerably more affordable and accessible to a wider range of students.
The significance of this historical receipt goes beyond its monetary value. It highlights the need for a broader conversation about the affordability and accessibility of education in Nigeria, particularly in comparison to the past. The 340 Naira fee, which once covered an entire academic session, now seems like a distant dream for today's students who grapple with significantly higher tuition fees.
Omoregie's decision to share this piece of history provides a valuable perspective on the changes in Nigeria's educational landscape over the years. It serves as a catalyst for discussions about how to make education more affordable and accessible to the current and future generations of students, while also shedding light on the challenges that have made higher education less attainable for many.