Education Expert Expresses Concern Over Burden of Multiple Taxation on Private Schools

Caroline Yakubu, the Executive Secretary of Africa Community School and Africa International College, both chaired by former head of state, Yakubu Gowon, has raised concerns over the imposition of multiple taxes and levies on private schools in Nigeria. She emphasized the indispensable role played by private schools in bolstering the country's education sector.

Yakubu urged the government to reconsider and eliminate the burdensome multiple taxes imposed on private educational institutions, as they have proven to be a significant hindrance to the day-to-day operations of these schools.

During a conversation with our correspondent on the sidelines of a news conference organized to herald the 20th-anniversary celebration of the schools, Yakubu reminisced about previous attempts by the government to nationalize private and mission schools, some of which were met with adversity.

"The place and role of private schools in our educational system cannot be over-emphasized. During the military era, they tried to nationalize many private schools, including mission schools. How did it end? Unquantifiable losses were the experiences, and we are still paying heavily for the errors," she emphasized.

She further pointed out the stark reality that in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) alone, there are over 2,400 private schools compared to approximately 830 public schools. She asked stakeholders to contemplate the ramifications of an FCT without privately run schools, underscoring the vital role they play in the overall education landscape.

Speaking about the substantial impact of the Africa Community School and Africa International College, Yakubu revealed that these institutions have provided scholarships to over 109 students, amounting to approximately N70 million. Additionally, they have extended support to nearby public schools by providing essential materials and resources, such as furniture and books, to aid the learning process.

"The items include furniture, books, and other learning materials. Besides, the folks and indigenes that reside around our locations have been employed within their appropriate skills. More importantly, God has helped us to positively impact the educational pursuit of many learners who have passed through our schools," she stated.

Caroline Yakubu also highlighted a compassionate policy at the school, where once a child is admitted, and they lose one or both parents, the child will not be withdrawn due to an inability to pay school fees. This policy reflects their commitment to providing quality education to children, regardless of their financial circumstances.