You're probably already aware, but if you need any further arguments, dubias can't fly, don't bite, and can't climb slick surfaces (like Sterilite-type tubs).
I was surprised the other day. I fumbled ZaRDoZ' bowlful of dubias and they went all over. I was only able to recover about half of them, but DW didn't freak out! (She had the same revulsion reflex as your folks). Instead, she was very supportive, reminding me they wouldn't survive the current winter and lack of sustenance. Like Indiana Jones, I chose...
wisely.
If I'm reading/understanding you correctly, 24" x 43" enclosure floor space sounds marginal (48 x 24 or larger recommended).
Here's a guideline I like. Assuming 24" dragon length, that would be 48-72"L x 24-36"D x 36-48"H. Personally, I think I'd try to keep to no more than 24-30"H for reasonably locating the UVB and safety (My dragon tends to fall/jump off things...
)
Good luck & congrats on graduation!