Nigeria’s financial woes have a devastating impact on international students in the UK, who are now fighting to stay afloat. At Teesside University, some students are locked out of their courses and ordered to leave the country after failing to pay tuition fees amidst the economic crisis.
At Thornaby’s Sprouts Community Food Charity, Manager Debbie Fixter reports that a overwhelming 75% of those seeking aid are students, pushing the organization to maximum capacity as it battles to cope with the surge in demand.
As part of its commitment to student well-being, the university is extending support services, concurrently adhering to the requirement that international applicants furnish conclusive evidence of financial stability when applying for visa eligibility.
SCFC has established a robust support network, delivering a diverse range of activities, food assistance, clothing, and household essentials, all provided free or at a minimal cost, to help individuals and families thrive.
The charity has identified a distinct trend in recent months, as its client base has undergone a significant transformation, with Nigerian postgraduate students from Teesside University now forming the largest cohort seeking assistance.
Nigeria is currently experiencing its worst economic crisis in a generation, with the value of the naira depreciating by more than 200% against the dollar in the past 12 months.
As a result, students at UK universities have seen their savings wiped out and budgets suddenly and significantly reduced, leaving them struggling to afford the cost of living.
Some have subsequently been ordered to leave the UK after struggling to pay their tuition fees on time, as reported by the BBC this month.
But Teesside University continues to recruit students in Nigeria, according to a spokesman.
‘Part of our community’
An increasing number of students who come to the UK are turning to community charities and organisations for much-needed help, according to SCFC manager Ms Fixter.
“They’re really struggling, they need help and they’re part of our community,” she said.
Client Boluwatife Elusakin said he has had to “dive deep” to afford the cost of living and studying in the UK.
Nigeria’s economic crisis means he is having to spend double what he had budgeted.
Read also: Nigerian Students Among Brightest In UK – Minister
“Things are no longer the same,” he said.
“I’ve had to cut costs because of the currency crash, it hit my savings as I’d already budgeted funds to come here.
“It makes me feel sad, but I hope I can endure just one year and all will be well.”
Ms Fixter said her charity was currently at “maximum capacity” as a result of the situation and called on Teesside University to offer more support.
While the university’s £500 donation in Sainsbury’s vouchers is appreciated, she pointed out that it is merely a fraction of what is needed to effectively support the large number of students flocking to the charity for assistance.
The university has fostered strong partnerships with community entities, facilitating a referral system that channels students back to its dedicated support networks, complemented by provision of financial assistance and vouchers to enhance the capacity of these organisations.
“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,” a spokesman added.
“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.”
Teesside University has pledged to provide tailored assistance to individuals impacted by the Nigerian crisis, offering personalized support on a case-by-case basis.