Breaking! Protest As Rivers University Asks PhD Graduands to Attend Convocation Without Gowns Despite N130,500 Fee
By Bolaji Gbadamosi
Aggrieved PhD graduands of Rivers State University, formerly known as Rivers State University of Science and Technology in Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt, have expressed grievances against the institution’s failure to provide academic gowns for their upcoming convocation ceremony, despite paying N130,500 fee each.
Under the leadership of Professor Nlerum Sunday Okogbule, the university reportedly instructed the graduands to attend the ceremony without gowns or to use gowns designated for first-degree or master’s graduates, a solution the PhD candidates deemed unacceptable.
Investigations by THECONSCIENCE NG revealed that a meeting between the frustrated graduates and university officials ended in a stalemate. Videos made available show the aggrieved graduands expressing their anger and disappointment at the university’s decision.
Receipt of payment of the said sum of N130,500 for the gown by a graduand was also seen.
Many lamented the humiliation they feel given their substantial payment for the ceremony. Adams Akinte (name withheld), one of the frustrated graduands, spoke to THECONSCIENCE NG about his dismay over the situation, stating that it has left him and others feeling demoralized ahead of the convocation scheduled for Saturday, December 14, 2024.
He said, “Ordinarily, the ceremony is something I have looked forward to all my life. It’s a lifelong ambition and dream to wear the graduation gown for the highest academic achievement.”
“Sadly, that joy has been overshadowed by the failure of the RSU authorities to provide our gowns. I feel demoted having to wear a gown meant for fresh graduates instead of proudly donning my PhD gown.”
(VIDEO) https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1GB2Es9Bkd/
When THECONSCIENCE NG contacted the university on the mobile number (08104444411) listed on its website, an official denied any knowledge of the complaints, insisting that all students who have paid would receive their gowns for the ceremony.
When pressed about the protests and the videos and other evidence, the official claimed a more senior staff member who could address the issue was unavailable. Upon being asked for further contact details, the official abruptly ended the call, stating they needed to consult with others.
An email sent to the university’s official address also went unanswered as of press time.
