An Exploratory Study of Students Attitudes and Responses to Rising University Tuition Fees;a Case Study of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto,sokoto State

ABSTRACT This study examines the perceptions of students regarding tuition fee increases and their impact on enrolment at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto. The research investigates the key factors driving tuition hikes, the consequences for student accessibility, and strategies to mitigate the effects of rising costs. Using a survey methodology, the study collected data from 277 students, employing a simple random sampling technique to ensure representation across different faculties and academic levels. The analysis was conducted using SPSS software, where descriptive statistics were used to summarize respondents' demographic information and Pearson correlation was applied to analyse the relationships between tuition fees and enrolment trends based on the questionnaire responses. The findings reveal that economic challenges such as inflation, insufficient government funding, and infrastructure costs are primary drivers of increased tuition fees. These financial pressures disproportionately affect low-income students, reducing enrolment and widening educational inequities. The study also identifies a moderate, positive Pearson correlation between tuition fees and enrolment trends, indicating that rising fees tend to negatively influence enrolment, particularly for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Proposed mitigating strategies include increased government funding, the establishment of need-based scholarships, enhanced stakeholder engagement, and the diversification of university revenue streams. The study recommends policies to regulate tuition increases and implement financial literacy programs for students.