Nigerian students at Teesside University in the United Kingdom are seeking assistance from a food charity due to financial difficulties caused by the naira devaluation, which has impacted their ability to pay tuition fees on time.
It would be recalled that Allnaijadiaspora.com had on Friday, reported the Federal government’s intervention on the order issued to the students.
According to a BBC report, these students have been blocked from continuing their studies and reported to the Home Office after the naira’s sharp decline depleted their savings.
In response, the affected students have turned to Thornaby’s Sprouts Community Food Charity (SCFC) for help. SCFC Manager Debbie Fixter reported to the BBC that 75% of the charity’s clients are now Nigerian students from Teesside University.
SCFC provides food, clothing, and household essentials, either for free or at minimal cost. Recently, the charity has seen a significant increase in Nigerian master’s degree students seeking assistance.
Teesside University stated that it offers support to students and emphasized that international applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds when applying for a visa.
However, Ms. Fixter revealed that SCFC is currently operating at “maximum capacity” due to the high demand and urged Teesside University to provide more support. The university has already donated £500 in Sainsbury’s vouchers, which Ms. Fixter described as a “drop in the ocean” compared to what is needed.
Teesside University mentioned that it collaborates with community organizations to direct students to its support services and has provided vouchers and contributions to help these organizations assist students.
“Teesside University remains a popular destination for students from across the world who choose to study here because of its global reputation for excellence in teaching and research.
“All international applicants need to provide evidence that they have sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living costs as part of the visa application process,” a spokesperson of the university said.
The university is offering “case by case” support to those affected by the situation in Nigeria.
