By Leonard Divine
For students who make use of data like water, it’s not uncommon to see messages like “You have 50MB left in your Data Bundle”. Data is the life of the average student, in fact, it has become another basic amenity students rely on in school.
From school projects to research, assignments etc, data has become indispensable for students. Especially in a tech-savvy generation like ours, data is life!!
A new semester has just begun, and while school fees, handouts, and food swallow a big part of our budget, one silent but powerful “tax collector” remains—DATA.
The recent 50% hike in the cost of tariffs has however made this essential commodity a luxury for students. According to an article by the University World News,the cost of 1GB of data was estimated to be around #287.5 but has since skyrocketed to a shocking #431.25 as a result of the recent hike.
A minute’s call time, previously #11, will now cost #16.5. This means that, for every minute of call time, you’ll pay an extra #5.5.
In the past, sending an SMS cost #4, but now it will cost #6.
This has undoubtedly brought untold hardships for students who rely on data to get by on school work and study effectively. Lecturers and university management who also depend on internet connectivity for their work have been impacted by this recent hike.
But is there a way to keep data in check without missing out on what’s important? The answer is yes! Let’s talk about some smart ways to survive the era of expensive data.
1.Make use of Wi-fi when you can
Before you buy that bundle, check if there’s a free Wi-Fi spot around campus or in your faculty. Most libraries, ICT centers, or even classrooms have Wi-Fi signals.
However, take care while using public Wi-fi. Always ensure you use a passworded Wi-fi ;if the password is easy to guess and connect to, it’s most likely unsafe and could come to bite you in the back. Ensure you check the Wi-fi details before you connect, you don’t want to leave with more than you bargained for!!
2. Choose the right bundle
Bundle Wisely.Not all bundles are created equal. Some are cheap at night (midnight browsing gang), some are daily, and some are social media-specific. Ask around or check apps like MyMTN or MyAirtel for hidden plans. A lot of students waste money buying the wrong bundles. Choose a data bundle that fits not just your budget but also your needs too.
3. Download, Don’t stream
Netflix and YouTube will finish your data faster than you think!!
Buying data is like pouring water into a basket; before you blink, it’s gone.
If you must watch, download your videos when Wi-Fi is available and enjoy them offline. Same for your playlists, download them when connected.
4. Stop scrolling aimlessly!
Be Realistic.Not everything online needs your attention!! Sometimes, the reason your data finishes is because we’re aimlessly scrolling. Discipline yourself to use data for priority tasks like assignments,school work, emails before you start diving into endless reels on Instagram and Tiktok.
5. Make use of Data-Saving Mode
Most phones have“data saver” options, including android and iPhones.
Social media apps like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter (X) also have settings to reduce data consumption. Activating them might mean fewer auto-play videos, but, it saves you money.
6. Hotspot Economics
You can agree to “co-fund” bundles and share via hotspot with a friend or roommate. It’s cheaper when two or three people split the cost. You just have to make sure one person doesn’t become the permanent hotspot donor in order to avoid conflict and malice in the room.
7. Embrace Offline Life
Remember when we survived without 24/7 internet? You can survive a few hours without using your data!!
Go outside, gist with friends, play games, or just sleep. Your unused data cannot finish. If it’s not absolutely necessary, resist the urge to switch on your data.
Your pockets will thank you!!
Data may be expensive, but it doesn’t have to completely drain you. With a little wisdom, a bit of discipline, and maybe a roommate’s hotspot, you can keep your pocket safe this semester.
After all, school is already stressful enough—don’t let your data stress you too.
At the end of the day, discipline is the key behind enjoying your data bundles, use it wisely and rightly!!
OBAFEMI AWOLOWO HALL PRESS 
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