students from the College of Agriculture and Renewable Natural Resources at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) staged a protest at the Iseyin campus to voice their frustrations regarding inadequate practical facilities essential for their education. This demonstration follows the payment of approximately N50,000 by each student for farm equipment and other necessary materials, which they claim have not been provided.
The protest was initiated by 400-level students who are particularly affected by the lack of resources critical for their practical work in agriculture. Despite the substantial fees paid, students reported that they have only engaged in minimal activities such as clearing land and cutting weeds since the semester began on November 11, 2024. They expressed their disappointment over the management's failure to provide adequate facilities or support for their agricultural studies.
One student remarked, “We are already in our final year and are supposed to be gaining hands-on experience in various agricultural practices. However, we lack access to essential facilities like poultry farms, piggery, and other vital resources that are available on the main campus in Ogbomoso but remain unused.”
The students face exorbitant accommodation and transportation costs due to the campus's remote location.
Many students reported that lecturers frequently fail to attend classes, further hindering their educational experience.
Students expressed distress over inadequate healthcare facilities on campus, stating that emergencies often go unaddressed due to the absence of medical services.
In light of these grievances, the protesting students have issued an ultimatum to the university management. They demand immediate action and improvements by Friday, January 26, 2025. If their concerns are not addressed satisfactorily, they have vowed to resume protests until meaningful changes are implemented.