Why we raise tuition fees, Lagos State Government explains

The Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has given reasons for the recent hike in school fees.

Recall that the Lagos State Government, at the weekend, announced N100,000 as the new fee for the state-owned boarding schools which was previously, N35,000. In a similar development, the Federal Government had in July 2023 increased fees for Unity Schools from N45,000 to N100,000 per term an increase of over 120 per cent.

Commenting on the reason for the hike in tuition fees, the Ministry explained that the decision was taken to ensure the welfare of the children, adding that the N35,000 boarding fees being paid since 2021 is not realistic in 2024.

The statement from the ministry reads: “The Ministry is aware of dissenting views by some parents to the inevitable increase in boarding fees in our model colleges. This is not an easy decision but the welfare of the children is a priority for the Ministry and the State.

“Lagos State Government provides free education in 1,021 Primary schools, 369 Junior Secondary and 329 Senior Secondary Schools which include 32 model Colleges across the State.

“The issue of ensuring a better welfare for our model college students necessitated the increase in boarding fees.

“The N35,000 boarding fees being paid since 2021 is not realistic in 2024. Ideally none of the parents will testify to the reasonability of feeding a child of 12 to 18 years with N35,000 for three months.

“Nutritious food is not just for physical growth but also for mental alertness. We certainly don’t want our students in boarding schools to look gaunt and lack the skill of critical thinking.

“The government takes responsibility for the health and well-being of the students while in school. To do this will require the full cooperation of all stakeholders. Our parents should show understanding for the sake of the children.”