LAGOS, Nigeria – A group of Nigerian students enrolled at Teesside University in the United Kingdom are facing expulsion after struggling to pay tuition fees on time due to the devaluation of the Nigerian naira. The currency’s decline has significantly increased the cost of their education, putting them at odds with their visa sponsorship requirements.
Financial Strain Triggers Breach of Visa Rules
The BBC reports that around 60 Nigerian students are caught in this financial crisis. The devaluation of the naira has made it considerably more expensive for them to fulfill their financial obligations. This breach of their visa sponsorship requirements has resulted in the university taking drastic measures. The students have been blocked from accessing online learning platforms, forcibly withdrawn from their courses, and reported to the Home Office, initiating the process for deportation.
The affected students expressed disappointment and frustration with the university’s response. They argue that the university is not offering adequate support and is being inflexible in the face of their unforeseen financial hardship. Some students, like Adenike Ibrahim, were on the verge of graduation after paying 90% of their fees, only to have their visas revoked due to the remaining balance.
Another student, Esther Obigwe, highlighted the mental health toll this situation has taken on her. She claims she repeatedly reached out to the university for help but received no response until it was too late. Obigwe emphasized her dedication to her studies despite the financial strain, attending all classes and seminars.
University Cites Regulations, Offers Limited Options
A spokesperson for Teesside University acknowledged the challenges faced by international students. However, they defended their actions by citing strict visa sponsorship regulations set by external bodies. The university claims they have no control over these regulations and are obligated to comply. They added that they have offered customized payment plans to some students facing financial hardship, but that some students defaulted on these plans.
The UK Home Office clarified that the decision to grant or withdraw visa sponsorship rests with the sponsoring institution, in this case, the university. Individuals whose visas are revoked are advised to either regularize their immigration status or depart the UK. This limited window for resolving the issue adds further pressure to the students’ situation.
The situation remains precarious for the affected Nigerian students. With limited options and the threat of deportation looming, they are pleading with the university to reconsider its stance and offer them a chance to complete their studies. The Nigerian government has not yet commented on the issue. The potential for intervention or support from the Nigerian government remains unclear.
International Students Caught in Currency Fluctuations
This incident highlights the vulnerability of international students to currency fluctuations. The devaluation of their home currency can significantly alter their financial standing, potentially jeopardizing their studies and visa status. This case raises questions about the support systems universities have in place to assist international students facing unforeseen financial difficulties.
The situation at Teesside University is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by international students. It underscores the need for universities to be more flexible and understanding in such situations. Perhaps exploring alternative payment plans, offering scholarships or financial aid specifically for international students facing currency fluctuations, or even creating hardship funds could be potential solutions.
Source: Punch
