Rivers State University Implements “No School Fees, No Exam” Policy for First Semester 2025

Rivers State University in Port Harcourt has introduced a new policy mandating that students who have not paid their school fees will not be allowed to take part in the upcoming first semester examinations.

This decision, announced by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Isaac Zeb-Obipi, was communicated during a campus roadshow aimed at sensitizing students about the importance of fee payment and course registration.

In his message, Prof. Zeb-Obipi, represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) Prof. Victor Akujuru, urged students to resist the temptation of diverting their school fees for other purposes, such as gambling. He emphasized that any student who failed to pay their fees and register for their courses would not have their name on the examination attendance sheet and thus would be ineligible to sit for the exams.

“The primary responsibility of every student is to pay your fees and attend your classes,” Prof. Zeb-Obipi stated. “Some students unfortunately divert the funds meant for their school fees to activities such as gambling, which ultimately makes them unable to meet their academic obligations.”

The university also highlighted the importance of registering courses before the exams begin on April 22, 2025. Without completing the registration process, students will be excluded from the examination list, regardless of their fee payment status.

This move comes as part of efforts to ensure that students meet the necessary academic and administrative requirements before taking exams. Additionally, Prof. Zeb-Obipi used the occasion to encourage students facing financial difficulties to consider applying for the Federal Government’s NELFUND student loan.

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He explained that the loan, which is interest-free, could help students who are struggling to pay their school fees, enabling them to complete their studies without hindrance. He urged students to consult the Directorate of Student Affairs for more information on the application process.

The university also offers a one-year deferment option for students who face significant financial, health, or other personal challenges. The institution’s Registrar, Mrs. Ibimonia Harry, addressed the students, stressing that those caught engaging in examination malpractice would face serious consequences, including potential expulsion.

Students were further reminded of the penalties associated with examination malpractice, such as carrying unauthorized materials or using cheat sheets, commonly referred to as “giraffing.” The university has made it clear that any student found guilty of such offenses will be penalized according to the institution’s rules.

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