The Federal Government of Nigeria, represented by the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Yusuf Sununu, has announced plans to establish a formal negotiation team to address the recent surge in tuition fees at schools nationwide. This initiative aims to bring together the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) and other relevant stakeholders to find a resolution to the issue.
Speaking during a news conference in Abuja to mark the International Day to Protect Education from Attack, the minister expressed concerns that the rising school fees might be a significant factor contributing to the various attacks on educational institutions. Sununu emphasized the urgency of finding a solution to this problem.
He further highlighted that the Federal Government had ratified the Safe School Declaration in December 2019 and developed a safe school policy to ensure the protection of the right to education, particularly in emergency situations.
The minister acknowledged the financial challenges faced by schools, citing the constitutional provision that guarantees free education but adds the condition “when government can afford.” He stressed the importance of collective responsibility and voluntary contributions from stakeholders. Sununu also indicated a willingness to encourage formal negotiations, with the involvement of PTAs and relevant institutions, to establish acceptable terms for tuition fees.
Sununu emphasized the significance of partnerships and strategies to enhance school safety and ensure that quality education remains accessible and affordable to all Nigerians without compromising educational standards.
This move by the Federal Government underscores its commitment to addressing the challenges faced by educational institutions and ensuring the protection and accessibility of education for all citizens.