The National Union of Nigerian Students (NANS) is urging the Federal Government to reevaluate its decision to suspend the accreditation and evaluation of degree certificates from Benin Republic and Togo.
According to Channels Television, the blanket suspension, initiated due to concerns over the swift acquisition of degrees, has adversely affected many legitimately registered students in both francophone West African countries.
NANS, acknowledging the government’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of academic qualifications, has expressed commendation. However, the student body is urging the government to carefully assess the repercussions of the decision on genuine students who have been pursuing their education in Benin Republic and Togo.
Highlighting that numerous students have completed significant portions of their education, with some having already graduated and awaiting approval for the National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) program, NANS emphasizes the current uncertainty these students face, adding that the blanket suspension has the potential to cause delays in both their academic and professional endeavors.
In a statement issued by NANS Senate President, Akinteye Afeez, the student body proposes a reassessment, emphasizing the need to distinguish between those engaged in fraudulent activities and the majority of students who are genuinely pursuing their education.
The statement reads, “Furthermore, Benin Republic and Togo host a significant number of Nigerian students seeking quality education. A blanket suspension can strain diplomatic and educational relations, impacting the opportunities available to Nigerian students in these neighbouring countries. A reconsideration of the suspension would alleviate the stress and uncertainties these students currently face.”
NANS suggests that the Federal Government should reconsider the suspension while ensuring the maintenance of a rigorous and transparent evaluation process.