Despite opposition from some parents, the Lagos State Government has upheld its decision to increase the boarding fee for students of its model colleges from N35,000 to N100,000 per term, News About Nigeria reports.
The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education made this stance clear in a statement issued on Tuesday, explaining that the fee hike is necessary to ensure the welfare of the students.
According to the statement, signed by Ganiu Lawal, Deputy Director of Public Affairs, the government acknowledged the concerns raised by parents but stated that the increase was essential to cover the rising costs associated with running the boarding facilities.
“This is not an easy decision, but the welfare of the children remains a priority for the Lagos State Government,” the statement read.
It said that the boarding fee, which covers feeding, janitorial services, energy costs, and other expenses, had not been realistic since the N35,000 fee was set in 2021.
Comparing boarding fees across other federal and state schools, the ministry maintained that Lagos was still offering a competitive rate, considering the current economic conditions.
“Feeding a child for three months with N35,000 is not feasible in today’s market,” Lawal said, urging parents to be understanding.
However, the Parents’ Forum of the model colleges reported a different development.
Following a protest, the Lagos State House of Assembly intervened and directed that the old fee of N35,000 be temporarily reinstated.
Ifeukwu Samuel, Deputy Chairman of the Parents’ Forum, revealed that the Assembly’s House Committee on Education had promised further discussions with the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education to review the fee structure.
As part of the resolution, a new school management board committee will be established in each college.
This committee, comprising parents and school representatives, will oversee the funds and ensure transparency in how the boarding fees are spent.
Samuel noted that this would allow parents to better understand how the money is being managed and whether future fee increases are necessary.
The Lagos State Government had initially announced the fee increase on September 13, citing the need to maintain high standards in the 32 model colleges, which operate boarding facilities across the state.
Despite the opposition, the government is sticking to the new rate, while the interim agreement with the House of Assembly allows further discussion on the issue.
Model colleges in Lagos are regarded as special secondary schools, offering both day and boarding options.
However, the recent fee hike has triggered concerns among parents, many of whom had already paid the previous amount before the announcement.
