Bauchi parents protest 40% increase in private school fees amid economic strain

The recent announcement of a 40% increase in private school fees has sparked protests among parents in Bauchi as they grapple with economic challenges.

As pupils resume for the 2024/2025 academic year, many private schools have raised registration fees significantly, forcing numerous parents to reconsider their children's education. The increase in fees has made it difficult for families to afford quality education, pushing some to keep their children at home.

Paul Isiah, a concerned parent, expressed frustration over the steep rise in school fees from ₦47,000 to ₦67,000. “I have four children in private schools, and the increase has put immense pressure on our finances,” he said. Isiah highlighted the rising cost of living and transportation as contributing factors, particularly following the fuel subsidy removal in Nigeria.

Another parent, Ahmed Mohammed, reported that his child's school fees surged from ₦15,000 to ₦25,000. He lamented, “My salary remains the same while the cost of education is skyrocketing.” Ahmed is now considering transferring his children to public schools, reflecting the sentiments of many families struggling to afford private education.

Parents like Adeyemi Monday pointed out that the burden of these increased fees is becoming unmanageable for most families. He called on the government to improve public school quality to provide viable alternatives for parents unable to meet private school costs.

“I previously paid ₦40,000 and ₦30,000 for my children; now it's ₦55,000 and ₦45,000,” he noted. Similarly, Sikiru Raji shared that his child's fees escalated from ₦90,000 to ₦135,000 due to inflation and stagnant wages.

Educators, including Olubunmi Adetoye, acknowledged the necessity of fee hikes due to inflation. “The costs of educational materials and transportation have risen, and schools must also increase salaries for staff,” she explained, justifying the fee increases.

A representative from the Private Schools Proprietors Association emphasized the financial pressures schools face in maintaining quality education amid economic hardships. “If fees aren’t increased, many schools will struggle to survive, which could lead to a decline in educational standards,” the official stated.

In response to the unrest, Dr. Jemila Dahiru, the Bauchi Commissioner for Education, assured parents that basic education remains free in the state. She pledged to investigate the reported fee hikes by private school proprietors, stressing that any unjustified increases would prompt action from the ministry.

“The private schools unit is reviewing these complaints to ensure compliance with established guidelines for fee increases,” Dr. Dahiru added. She affirmed the ministry's commitment to enhancing public schools, making them more appealing options for parents.

The situation in Bauchi reflects broader economic challenges faced by families across Nigeria, highlighting the urgent need for reforms in the education sector to ensure equitable access to quality education.