The University of Ibadan has announced that 3,283 students have had their loan applications approved by the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).

In an internal memo, the university’s leadership stated that although the funds have not yet been received, affected students will be allowed to sit for the 2023/2024 first-semester exams.

The memo read, “Further out circular number REG/13/1.26 of 13 September 2024, I write to you to inform the university community that the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has sent to the University of Ibadan a list of 3,283 students whose loan applications had just been approved.

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“Though the money has not been received by the university, the list of the affected students has been sent to the Department and all Heads of departments have been instructed to allow such students to sit for the 2023/ 2024 first semester exams”.

This approval follows widespread crowdfunding efforts by the university’s student union and associations, as many students struggled to meet the September 20 deadline for fee payments and registration.

The university had previously stated there would be no extension of the deadline.

However, many students remain dissatisfied, demanding a complete reversal of the fee hike rather than loans.

Student protesters have planned another peaceful demonstration on Friday to push for fee reductions and express concerns over the sustainability of loans.

A student representative Nice Linus, insisted that the students “do not want loans or reductions” but a total reversal of fees to ensure quality, accessible education.