— Hike Likely as Government Urges Moderation
The cost of education, especially school levies in Ondo State may soon change as stakeholders in the sector convened in Akure to review school fees ahead of the 2025/2026 academic session.
At the centre of the discussion was the delicate balance between rising operational costs and the financial hardship facing parents across the state.
Professor Igbekele Ajibefun, the newly appointed Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, presided over the meeting — his first with key players in the sector since assuming office.
While stressing the importance of collaboration, Ajibefun appealed for restraint in proposing any upward review of fees.
“In this current economic climate, we must tread carefully,” he said. “Our priority should be to ensure access to quality education without putting unbearable pressure on parents.”
He further pledged to initiate reforms that would raise the standard of education in the state, calling on all stakeholders to support his vision.
Also speaking at the meeting, Dr. Akindele Ige, Administrative Secretary of the Ministry, explained that the gathering is a routine annual exercise, aimed at reaching consensus on fee structures for the new academic year.
He congratulated the Commissioner on his appointment and expressed confidence in his capacity to lead the sector.
Although a specific amount was agreed upon during the session, details are yet to be officially disclosed.
The final decision, officials say, will be communicated to all public schools in due course.
The meeting drew attendance from a wide range of education stakeholders including directors in the ministry, representatives of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), Parents Teacher Association (PTA).
Others were National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), Association of Primary School Headteachers of Nigeria (AOPSHON), All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), and Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS).
Many parents across the state will be watching closely, as the outcome could either alleviate their suffering or affect household budgets already strained by inflation and fuel subsidy removal.
