By Comfort Manyam.
Benue State University (BSU), Markurdi has introduced a Summer Semester Programme to help final-year and spillover students complete their studies on time. The programme, which commenced on April 22, 2024, requires students to pay a flat registration fee of ₦50,000 and an additional ₦5,000 per carryover course.
The programme’s structure includes three weeks of lectures, one week of revision, and two weeks of examination. For many students, this initiative is a welcome relief, providing an opportunity to address academic setbacks and graduate without delay.
In an interview, Dr. Maria Onyilo, a Mass Communication lecturer, notes that the programme’s online classes have been well-received by students, easing stress and making life easier for those with distance and transportation challenges.
Student feedback is mixed, with some appreciating the programme’s benefits while others find the cost high. Jane Destiny, a student enrolled in the programme, says it has helped her avoid sitting with non-course mates, although she finds the registration fees steep. Mtoh Junior believes the programme is beneficial but suggests making it more affordable to reach more students.
BSU is not alone in offering a Summer Semester. Other Nigerian universities, such as Umar Suleiman College of Education, Gashua, Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, and Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, have similar programmes with varying registration fees. Notably, BSU’s registration fee stands out as relatively affordable compared to these institutions.
At Umar Suleiman College of Education, Gashua (USCOEGA) in Yobe State, the Summer Semester for the 2024/2025 academic session targets final-year NCE III students, spillover students, and amnesty candidates. The registration fees are structured as follows: ₦15,000 per course for carryover students and ₦20,000 for spillover students.
Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, also offers an eight-week Summer Semester, with a fee of ₦50,000 per course. At Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, students with carryover courses can register for up to 26 credit units during a six-week summer session. The programme’s fees include ₦10,000 per credit unit, with an additional ₦15,000 for hostel accommodation for students who choose to stay on campus.
The trend of adopting Summer Semesters highlights a shift towards flexible academic programmes that cater to students’ needs. By providing additional opportunities to complete studies, these institutions reduce academic setbacks and encourage success.For students considering enrolling in the Summer Semester, the advice is to act quickly, register early, and utilize this opportunity to strengthen their academic standing. While costs may be a concern, the benefits of timely graduation and improved results may outweigh the financial burden.
