Delta cuts acceptance fees in state varsities by 25%

The government of Delta has approved a 25 percent reduction in acceptance fees payable in its state-owned universities.

NAN reports that Sheriff Oborevwori, the state’s governor, approved the cut as part of a palliative package for students.

In a statement signed by Festus Ahon, the chief press secretary, on Wednesday, the governor said the reduction is in line with measures taken by the state government to cushion the effects of the petrol subsidy removal on citizens.

He said the 25 percent reduction is for new students at Delta State University in Abraka, Delta State University of Science and Technology in Ozoro, University of Delta in Agbor, and Dennis Osadebay University in Anwai-Asaba.

Ahon said the governor had earlier approved the payment of ₦10,000 to workers for three months and payment of ₦5.522 billion to 50,196 workers as promotion arrears.

“This is in addition to the Governor approving three work days rotational scheme for civil servants on salary grade levels 1-14,” he said.

“While staff members on SGL 15 and above are to work out what is convenient for them in their respective MDAs, thereby ensuring that essential services remain uninterrupted.

“2,000 primary school teaching and non-teaching staff members are being recruited in 22 out of the 25 local government areas in the state.”

Ahon said the state government had earmarked ₦10 billion, over 17,000 bags of rice, and over 64,000 bags of maize in 50kgs as palliatives for the less privileged, the poor, persons with disabilities, and the aged in the society.

“All these efforts were geared at cushioning the effect of fuel subsidy removal on citizens of the state,” he added.