*UNICROSS SUG HOLDS EMERGENCY CONGRESS TO ADDRESS PROPOSED SCHOOL FEE INCREMENT*

*ETF 1, Saturday 15th November 2025*

Following the emergency congress convened by the Students’ Union Government (SUG) of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), we, the congressmen and women from various faculties and departments, met with the SUG President, Comrade Ogar Favour Johobe (Noble), and his executive council to deliberate on a matter of urgent student concern — the proposed increment in school fees.

In the course of the meeting, the SUG President informed the Congress that he and his team earlier met with the Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Francesca Bassi, to discuss the current state of fees. According to the VC, returning students are to pay *₦146* why freshers are expected to pay ₦165,000 as the new school fee rate.

This proposal was tabled before the Congress for further discussion and collective student input. The majority of student representatives strongly opposed the increment, citing the already harsh economic realities faced by students and their families. While a few members suggested that if any increment must occur, it should not exceed 10%, the general consensus remained clear — *no increment should be implemented at all.*

After careful deliberation, the Congress resolved as follows:

1. *If our position is not favorably considered by the university management, we, the students, will embark on a peaceful solidarity demonstration* to express our dissatisfaction.

2. *Freshers are advised not to rush into paying the proposed fees* if the school portal is opened before our demands are addressed by the management.

3. *One of the senators suggested that, if necessary, students may consider going on an academic strike* to make it clear that *without students, there is no university management.*

This Congress stands united in protecting the interest of the Blazers Republic and remains committed to ensuring that student welfare is not compromised.

*This is the official outcome of the emergency Congress.*

*Reporting:*

*Chief Ogbudu Joseph*