Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa has officially introduced a mandatory certificate fee of ₦10,000. The policy, designed to streamline the issuance of certificates and enhance the management of student records, has now become a prerequisite for all students seeking graduation clearance and the release of their official results.
The directive, formalized through an official memorandum signed on behalf of the Registrar by Haj. Fatima Usman Liman, MNIM, specifies that all graduating students must make payment to the Federal Polytechnic Microfinance Bank located within the school premises. Students are required to present proof of payment to the Students Records & Statistics Unit before they can collect their statements of results or any official certificates. The memo was circulated to key institutional offices, including the Rector’s office, the Bursar, and relevant administrative directorates, to ensure compliance with the new policy.
According to the polytechnic’s administration, the introduction of the certificate fee is intended to create a more efficient process for handling graduation documents. By centralizing the payment and processing system, the school aims to eliminate delays in certificate issuance while maintaining accurate student records. The fee also provides an auditable trail for the institution, ensuring transparency and accountability in the management of graduation-related transactions.
For students, the implementation of this fee carries significant implications. Graduating students are now required to factor in the additional ₦10,000 expense as part of their financial planning, alongside other graduation-related costs such as convocation gowns, travel, and accommodation. Timely payment is crucial, as any delay in fulfilling this requirement could lead to administrative hold-ups, potentially affecting the collection of official results and participation in the convocation ceremony. The school has emphasized that only students who can present official proof of payment will be allowed to receive their statements of results and certificates, making it imperative that students retain all transaction receipts safely.
The announcement has sparked varied reactions among the student body. While some students acknowledge the necessity of the fee, noting that it supports institutional efficiency and record-keeping, others have expressed concerns about the added financial burden. Many students have called for greater transparency and early communication regarding such fees to allow adequate preparation, particularly for those from low-income families. Discussions on student forums and social media have highlighted the importance of proper financial planning and compliance to avoid administrative challenges.
In the broader context of Nigerian higher education, the introduction of certificate fees is a common practice in many polytechnics and universities. These fees are typically used to cover administrative costs associated with certificate processing and the maintenance of accurate student records. What distinguishes the Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa policy is the strict enforcement and the centralized payment process, which ensures accountability while requiring students to engage directly with the institution’s designated financial channels.
The implementation of the mandatory certificate fee marks a significant step toward improving administrative efficiency, transparency, and accountability at Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa. While it introduces an additional financial consideration for graduating students, compliance with the policy is essential to ensure timely receipt of results and certificates. Students are strongly advised to make payments promptly, retain proof of transactions, and complete all graduation clearance requirements to avoid any potential delays.
