The Kano State Government has introduced measures to prevent private and voluntary schools from imposing unjustified fee hikes and mandating parents to purchase materials directly from the institutions.
Comrade Baba Abubakar Umar, Executive Secretary of the Kano State Private and Voluntary Institutions Board (KSPVIB), reported that some schools have been exploiting parents by levying hidden fees and excessive charges.
To address these issues, the board has established new guidelines. Schools are now required to hold a Parents-Teachers Association (PTA) meeting to discuss any proposed fee increases. Following this meeting, schools must submit a formal request to the board for fee adjustments, accompanied by the PTA meeting’s attendance record.
Umar emphasized that at least two-thirds of parents must be present at the PTA meeting for any proposed fee change to be considered valid.
He also noted that the board has received numerous complaints from parents regarding unexpected charges. Despite economic pressures, Umar stressed the need for schools to maintain fairness and transparency in their fees.
Furthermore, the board plans to work with relevant authorities to take legal action against schools that operate without proper licenses or evade taxes.
Umar assured the public that the board is committed to ensuring that schools offer safe learning environments and employ qualified teachers to deliver quality education.