Anambra School Challenges Soludo's Free Education Policy, Sends Pupils Home Over Fees

Recently, the implementation of Governor Chukwuma Soludo's free education policy in Anambra State is faced with a severe setback. Authorities of a primary school in the Dunukofia local government area have reportedly turned away pupils due to non-payment of school fees.

Governor Soludo had earlier declared the abolition of school fees for primary and junior secondary schools in the state, emphasizing the importance of an all-inclusive education system. He expressed his commitment to providing quality education without financial barriers, citing the goal of equalizing educational opportunities for children from various economic backgrounds.

SEE: Anambra State Governor Declares Free Education for All in Government Schools

Despite the governor's directive, reports indicate that Ozalla Primary School in Ifitedunu expelled pupils for failing to pay the prescribed school fees of N4,500 for primary school students and N2,000 for nursery school students. A concerned relative of affected pupils, orphaned children struggling after their father's tragic accident, revealed that the students were sent home before the weekend.

READ: ANAMBRA: Governor Soludo Allocates N1.524 Billion to Missionary Schools in Anambra State

In response to the incident, the press secretary to the governor, Mr. Christian Aburime, reaffirmed Governor Soludo's commitment to tuition-free education in public schools. Aburime stated that any violation of this directive would face consequences, urging individuals with information on the school and its head to come forward for appropriate action.

SUGGESTED: Governor Soludo Applauds Vice Chancellor Nwakoby and Vows Sustained Backing in COOU Visit

The situation brings into focus the challenges in implementing the governor's ambitious free education policy and raises questions about the need for stricter enforcement to ensure the realization of equal access to quality education for all children in Anambra State.