In a move that has sparked widespread outrage, the Federal Government has approved a staggering 122.2% increase in school fees for new students enrolling in Federal Government Colleges, popularly known as Federal Unity Colleges. The decision, communicated through a circular dated May 25, 2023, has raised the fees from the previous N45,000 to N100,000.
The circular, issued by the Office of the Director of Senior Secondary Education Department of the Federal Ministry of Education, bears reference number ADF/120/DSSE/I, and was addressed to all Principals of Federal Unity Colleges. According to the circular, the increased fees will impact various aspects and activities of the school, including tuition, boarding fees, uniforms, textbooks, deposits, exercise books, prospectus, caution fee, ID cards, stationery, clubs, societies, sports, extra lessons, insurance, and more.
The decision to raise fees has met fierce opposition from various quarters. Nigerian Parents Forum, representing concerned parents, appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and reverse the exorbitant increment. They deemed the move arbitrary, insensitive, and ill-timed, considering the economic challenges posed by fuel subsidy removal in the country. The parents had hoped that President Tinubu’s promised welfare programs would help them cope with the financial burden of education.
In response to growing public discontent, the House of Representatives also voiced its concern and directed the Federal Ministry of Education to review the new school fees regime. The House urged the Federal Government to increase budgetary allocations to the education sector, emphasizing the importance of providing Nigerian students with access to quality and affordable education.
The significant fee increase has ignited discussions about the accessibility of education in the country and the impact on students and their families. As the situation unfolds, both parents and lawmakers are calling for a reconsideration of the decision to ensure that education remains accessible to all and that the welfare of Nigerian students is a top priority.
