Students of the University of Buea are up in arms over a newly imposed fee of 2,000 FCFA ($5) for the collection of their degree certificates.
The announcement, made public on January 4, 2024, by Vice-Chancellor Professor Ngomo Horace, pertains to certificates for graduates from 2019 to 2021.
While the communique informs graduates that their certificates are now available for collection at their respective establishments starting January 9, it also stipulates that students must present “a receipt of payment of 2,000 from the Receipt Control Office.” This requirement has met with significant backlash from students, who perceive it as exploitative.
“Sad to say one has to pay 2k before collecting certificate,” lamented one student in conversation with MMI. They expressed frustration that students, after completing clearances and receiving Attestations, are still faced with additional fees.
“Can we not simply have a collection pole for that? This is exploitation. At least those who have completed studies should easily pass by and collect their certificates,” the student added.
This is not the first time MMI has received complaints of alleged exploitation from students of the University of Buea. Despite its reputation as a renowned institution, a disconnect seems to exist between the administration and the student body, hindering the desired fair and cordial relationship.
