At least 60 Nigerian students at Teesside University are facing deportation after being expelled for failing to pay their tuition fees on time. The students cite the devaluation of the naira as the primary cause of their financial difficulties, which has significantly impacted their ability to meet their financial obligations.
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This failure to pay tuition fees has breached their visa sponsorship conditions, compelling them to halt their studies and report to the UK Home Office. Teesside University has stated that strict external regulations necessitated this action to comply with visa requirements.
However, the affected students have expressed frustration and disappointment, accusing the university of being unsupportive and denying them access to their accounts and courses. Many of them feel abandoned during their time of need.
Adenike Ibrahim shared her ordeal with the BBC, stating, “I did default (on payments), but I’d already paid 90% of my tuition fees, and I went to all of my classes. I called them and asked to reach an agreement, but they do not care what happens to their students. It has been heartbreaking for my son especially, he has been in so much distress since I told him.”
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Another student, Esther Obigwe, described her struggle with depression, saying, “I attended all of my classes and seminars, I’m a hell of an active student. It is disheartening, I am now on antidepressants and being here alone, I have nobody to talk to. For over two months, I’ve barely eaten or slept, and I don’t understand why this is being meted at us; we didn’t do anything wrong.”
Jude Salubi added, “As of now, I have paid £14,000 and have a balance of £14,000. I am willing to come to an agreement as to how I will make this payment, but I need guarantees that I will be re-enrolled into school and my visa restored.”
In response, a spokesperson for Teesside University stated, “Teesside University is proud to be a global institution with a diverse student population but is also very aware of its obligations regarding visa issuance and compliance. These strict external regulations ensure that the university fully supports a robust immigration system and is outside of the university’s control.”
The spokesperson also mentioned that the university had offered revised payment plans to accommodate students facing financial difficulties, but some students still defaulted on these arrangements.
The affected students are now appealing for understanding and support as they navigate this challenging period.
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