Parents of dentistry students at the University of Uyo (Uniuyo), Akwa Ibom State, have raised serious concerns over the lack of accreditation for the dentistry programme since it started in 2021.
The group, known as the Forum of Parents of Dental Students, warned that their children may end up spending extra years in school if urgent action is not taken to resolve the issue.
They spoke on Friday during a press briefing in Uyo after staging a peaceful protest. The protesters carried placards with messages such as “Don’t normalise extra years for professional students,” “Save Uniuyo Dental Students now,” and “Stop unnecessary delay for our children.”
The Forum chairman, Mr. Sunday Elijah, speaking through Otuekong Vincent Udoh, said they were worried that the university might not secure accreditation from the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) before the pioneer students are due to graduate in about one year and four months.
He said the university has not yet invited the MDCN for an advisory or accreditation visit, adding that both the school and government authorities need to act quickly to avoid a crisis.
According to the Forum, accreditation should normally be secured before students are admitted into such programmes. They said the university is now trying to buy equipment, but the items being acquired are not enough for proper accreditation standards.
The parents noted that management had mentioned plans to purchase only 10 dental chairs and 10 phantom heads, which they described as far below what is needed for a full programme.
They suggested an “internal merger” option, where dentistry students in Years 5, 4, and 3 could be merged into the Medicine and Surgery programme to avoid delays.
They argued that the affected students have already shared similar training with medical students, attended the same lectures, and passed similar exams at different levels. They also said both groups have taken part in the same clinical postings.
The Forum explained that such a merger could be done quickly without waiting for new buildings, staff recruitment, or full accreditation, which may take years.
They also warned that continued delays could cause emotional, financial, and psychological stress for students and their families.
The parents called on the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) to intervene with understanding, while also ensuring that the university management is held accountable without punishing students for administrative issues.
Meanwhile, the Acting Vice Chancellor of Uniuyo, Prof. Samuel Odewumi, acknowledged that the accreditation issue is a major concern.
He said the university has already taken steps such as awarding contracts and making preparations needed for accreditation.
He assured that the process is ongoing and that the school will soon invite the regulatory council to inspect the programme.
According to him, “Everything required is being done. Accreditation cannot be completed in one or two days, but we are working on it. What remains now is to formally invite the council for inspection.”