Students at the University of Management and Technology (UNIMTECH) are expressing strong opposition to the recent decision by the Students’ Union to increase the capitation fee from NLe 50 to NLe 100, citing significant financial stress amid rising tuition and economic challenges.

The increase, announced earlier this week, has drawn immediate criticism from student representatives, particularly from those in the Human Resources Department, who argue that the additional fee is unjustified given the current economic hardships facing many students.

According to a spokesperson from the Human Resources Department, students are demanding transparency regarding the Union’s use of the initial NLe 50 fee, which they claim was collected without sufficient accountability.

“Before considering any increase, the Union must provide a full and detailed report showing exactly how the funds have been utilized, especially on promised projects like campus amenities and humanitarian assistance,” the representative stated. “Without this transparency, students cannot trust that additional fees will be used effectively or fairly.”

The increase comes as students already face rising tuition costs, which have left many struggling to manage their financial obligations.

Numerous students reportedly continue to grapple with overdue payments from previous years, and the recent fee adjustments have intensified the strain on families across the country, according to student representatives.

“We are facing financial burdens from multiple directions,” added the HR Department spokesperson. “Raising the capitation fee at this time seems unreasonable and only adds to the difficulties students are already enduring.”

Students have called on the Union to maintain the current capitation fee of NLe 50 and focus on managing resources more efficiently rather than passing additional costs onto students.

They argue that cost-effective planning and prioritization of existing funds could address essential student needs without additional charges. The representative also urged the Union to advocate on behalf of financially struggling students, particularly during the current economic climate.

In response to these demands, students are requesting that the Union improve transparency and accountability, demonstrating clearly how students’ contributions benefit the entire student body.

Students argue that the Union’s role is to support and advocate for them, and they are hopeful that it will reconsider the decision and align more closely with the interests of the student community.