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The West African Francophone Universities Alumni Body, alongside concerned undergraduates, has announced plans to stage a peaceful protest on September 17, 2024.
The protest is in response to the ongoing invalidation of certificates from accredited private universities in the Republic of Benin and the Republic of Togo by the Nigerian Federal Ministry of Education.
Over 10,000 affected Nigerian graduates, students, parents, and supporters are expected to participate in the demonstration.
According to the alumni body, the invalidation of these certificates has jeopardized their academic credentials, career prospects, and future opportunities.
They expressed frustration that, prior to their enrolment in these universities, the same ministry had assured them of the accreditation status of these institutions.
Moreover, they had undergone rigorous screening by the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) after completing their studies and were issued certificates of service.
Despite efforts to engage the Ministry of Education and an inter-ministerial committee to resolve the issue, the graduates claim that their concerns have not been adequately addressed. They believe the ministry’s decision is unjust and could have severe implications for the education sector.
The protest will be a peaceful march from the Federal Ministry of Education to the Three Arms Zone in Abuja. Organizers have assured authorities that the demonstration will not compromise public safety and have called on the Nigerian Police Force to provide protection during the march.
With the hope that their protest will bring attention to the issue and lead to a resolution.
