Federal Gov't Raises Unity School Fees to Over 100% Amidst Economic Hardship


In a move that has stirred controversy and concern among parents and guardians, the Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a significant increase in the school fees for new students entering Federal Government colleges, commonly known as Federal Unity colleges. The fees have been raised from ₦45,000 to ₦100,000 per student, as revealed in a circular issued by the Office of the Director of Senior Secondary Education Department of the Federal Ministry of Education on May 25, 2023.


The circular, titled "Approved fees/charges for Federal Unity Colleges (1st Term) for new students," was addressed to all Principals of Federal Unity Colleges. The decision, signed by the Director of Senior Secondary Education, Hajia Binta Abdulkadir, has raised concerns among parents and stakeholders in the education sector.


According to the circular, the ₦100,000 fee covers various aspects and activities within the schools, including tuition and boarding fees, uniform, textbooks, deposits, exercise books, prospectus, caution fee, ID card, stationery, clubs and societies, sports, extra lessons, insurance, among others. The new fees are expected to take effect immediately and will impact both incoming and current students in the Federal Unity colleges.


Following the announcement, parents under the umbrella of the Nigerian Parents Forum expressed their displeasure and disapproval of the fee increment. In June 2023, they sent an appeal to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to intervene and persuade the Federal Ministry of Education to reconsider the decision to raise school fees. The parents argued that the sudden hike in fees is arbitrary, insensitive, and ill-timed, particularly in light of the economic challenges posed by the removal of fuel subsidies in the country.


The Nigerian Parents Forum highlighted that the increment is inconsistent with President Tinubu's promise to implement welfare programs that would aid Nigerian parents in coping with the country's economic hardships. They emphasized that the rising cost of education could burden many families already grappling with financial strains and adversely affect access to quality education for their children.


As the news of the fee hike continues to spark public debate and concern, many are urging the government to rethink its decision and consider the socioeconomic implications on students and their families. They advocate for a more inclusive and consultative approach in addressing educational challenges while ensuring that the right to quality education is not compromised for Nigerian students.


The Ministry of Education has yet to respond to the parents' appeal or issue further statements regarding the fee increment. The situation remains fluid as stakeholders await the government's next steps and measures to address the concerns raised by concerned parents and educational advocates.

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