The Lagos State Government stands firm on increasing model college boarding fees from ₦35,000 to ₦100,000 per term. Despite parents’ discontent, the state will implement the fee hike for the 2024/2025 academic session. Officials cite rising costs of food, energy, and essential services as reasons for the increase. Ganiu Lawal, Deputy Director of Public Affairs, confirmed the decision in a recent statement to journalists.
Economic Pressures Justify Fee Increase
The Ministry stated that Nigeria’s current economic situation has made the unchanged ₦35,000 boarding fees, set since 2021, unsustainable.Lawal stated that ₦35,000 cannot realistically feed and accommodate a child for three months. He emphasised inflation’s impact on feeding and utilities. The government claims the new fees are still lower than other federal and state boarding schools’ charges.
Parents Voice Concerns Over Fee Hike
Parents have not been silent in their opposition to the fee increase. The Parents’ Forum, led by its Chairman, Dapo Dawodu, has taken the matter to the Lagos State House of Assembly, arguing that the increase places undue financial strain on families. The Assembly temporarily halted the fee hike and reinstated the previous amount. The state government quickly overruled this decision. Officials maintain that the new fees are final and will not change. The government firmly stands by its decision.
Efforts to Find a Middle Ground
The Parents’ Forum proposed creating school management committees to oversee the proper allocation and use of funds, aiming to ensure that the extra money directly improves student welfare, in an attempt to ease tensions. However, the Lagos State Government has remained resolute, stating that the increase is necessary for maintaining quality boarding services.
No Reversal Planned for Fee Hike
The government made it clear that the ₦100,000 fee will be implemented for the 2024/2025 school year. Despite protests and efforts by the Lagos State House of Assembly, officials remain firm on this decision. Lawal urged parents to accept the decision for the benefit of their children’s education, emphasising the growing expenses required to provide adequate care and facilities for students.
Parents Continue to Seek Relief
As the new academic session starts, frustrated parents continue questioning whether the authorities have adequately addressed their concerns. The Parents’ Forum continues to push for a reconsideration of the fee structure, while students have already begun the school year under the revised payment conditions.
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