Education in Nigeria
Ogun govt warns against illegal fees collection in schools
As part of its efforts to sanitise the education sector, Ogun State government has issued a stern warning to administrators and teachers of public schools to desist from collecting illegal fees, as it would not hesitate to sanction whoever is found guilty.
The State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, gave this warning at a meeting with the executive committee of All Nigerian Confederation of Principal of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), Ogun State Chapter, at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
He stressed that collecting fees for dossiers, forcing students to pay for after-school classes or lessons, payment of Parents Teachers Association (PTA) levy, as well as buying sports-wear for inter-house sports were against the free education policy of the present administration.
Arigbabu explained further that the free education policy of the Prince Dapo Abiodun’s administration would continue to ensure inclusiveness, even as it makes education accessible to all school-age children in the State, adding that schools interested in organising inter-house sports competitions should source for funds outside the school premises or seek support from old students for assistance.
He added that the State government’s policies on education would be institutionalised, while examination malpractices in schools had reduced through Information Communication Technology-driven initiatives.
Prof. Arigbabu also disclosed that the government had given approval for provision of 20,000 chairs and tables for public schools in the State, saying the first phase of distribution would commence soon.
‘’You can imagine that many states are coming to understudy what we are doing in the State, to the extent that the Federal Government wanted us to share the model used in managing our schools; it is a big plus to the State. So, the first phase of 10,000 distribution of tables and chairs across the State will commence very soon,” he stated.
Responding on behalf of the Principals, President, ANCOPSS, Ogun State Chapter, Mr. Edward Adekoya, commended Governor Abiodun for his commitment to the development of all sectors of the economy of the state, noting that the education sector’s running costs to schools were paid as an when due.
He also appreciated the State Commissioner for his leadership roles in the revolution of the education system, promising continued cooperation and loyalty of all Principals and teachers towards the development of the education sector.
Adekoya added that government should not hesitate to sanction any teacher or school administrator found wanting.