The Sokoto State Government has suspended the collection of all forms of fees in public secondary schools following widespread concerns raised by parents and stakeholders.
Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Professor Ladan Ala, issued the directive on Tuesday, instructing all principals across the state to immediately halt the collection of education-related charges.
The suspension, according to Ala, will remain in force pending the outcome of a committee set up to review the various fees being demanded in schools.
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In a statement signed by the ministry’s Public Relations Officer, Ibrahim Mohammad Iya, the Commissioner emphasised that under no circumstance should parents, guardians, or students be asked to pay any levy until further notice.
Fees Affected by the Suspension
The categories of fees suspended include: Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) Levy, Admission Fee, Testimonial Fee, Statement of Result Fee, MSS Fee, Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) statement of result/certificate charges, Answer sheets and screening form fees, Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE) related charges, NECO, NABTEB and NBAIS certificate fees.
Professor Ala stressed that the suspension is aimed at addressing complaints about multiple levies imposed on students and easing the financial burden on parents.
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Warning to School Principals
The ministry warned that any violation of the directive will attract immediate administrative action against defaulting principals.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to making education accessible and affordable, noting that reforms in the sector are part of ongoing efforts to strengthen basic and secondary school systems in Sokoto State.
