Bayelsa varsity suspends use of uniforms

The management of the Niger Delta University (NDU) in Bayelsa state has suspended its policy mandating students of the institution to wear uniforms amid controversies trailing the initiative.

The development followed a meeting convened at the instance of Douye Diri, the state governor, to address the conflict between the management and students of the institution.

The meeting — presided over by Lawrence Ehwrudjakpo, the deputy governor — was held at the government house in Yenagoa and had in attendance members of the varsity’s governing council and students representatives.

In a statement, Doubara Atasi, Ehwrudjakpo’s media aide, said major issues that led to the recent face-off between the students and the institution’s management have been resolved.

According to him, it was agreed that that the portal for the payment of school fees be reopened, adding that the students’ union body will also be allowed to function from next session.

He added that the meeting also resolved that students should pay 70 per cent of the school fees at the beginning of every semester.

Students were also banned from wearing indecent outfits while departments and faculties were ordered to ensure strict compliance with provisions of the varsity’s 2015 students’ handbook.

“The remaining 30 per cent is to be paid before the commencement of second semester exams, while year one students are required to make full payment of all fees to enable them to have their matriculation numbers,” the statement read.

“The meeting also endorsed the prohibition of indecent and indiscriminate dressing by students, with all faculties directed to enforce their respective dress codes and other regulations as spelt out in the 2015 students’ handbook.

“On the issue of suspension of the Students’ Union Government, it was resolved that the school authority should allow the formation of the body at the beginning of the upcoming academic calendar.”

In his remark, Samuel Edoumiekumo, vice-chancellor of the institution, said the recent unrest at the varsity was due to misunderstanding.

He enjoined the students to always guard themselves against being used by politicians.

Proctor Joshua-Ebi, who spoke on behalf of the students, commended the state government for its quick intervention in the matter.

Students of the institution had earlier staged a peaceful protest over the management’s uniform policy, portal closure among other issues.

Amid the drama, the institution had shut down activities indefinitely pending when the matter is resolved.