By DAYO ADESULU
Committee to Engage Stakeholders Following Protests from Concerned Parents
The Lagos State House of Assembly has directed the Chairman of the House Committee on Education, Mosunmola Sangodara, to invite all relevant stakeholders to discuss the recent increase in boarding fees at the state’s model colleges. The committee is expected to report back within one week.
Background on the Fee Hike
This directive follows a meeting between Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and protesting parents on Monday outside the Assembly gate in Alausa, Ikeja. The boarding fees have been raised from N35,000 to N100,000 for the 2024/2025 academic session, which began on September 15, 2024.
Addressing Parent Concerns
During the plenary session, Speaker Obasa emphasized the need for intervention, as the ongoing protests by parents had reached a boiling point. He urged the parents to remain calm and assured them that their concerns would be taken seriously.
Committee Chair Sangodara informed the Assembly that discussions had already begun with the Ministry of Education and other key stakeholders regarding the fee increase. She stated that the committee is committed to finding a resolution that considers the interests of all parties involved.
Temporary Agreement on Fees
Shabi Adekola, representing Lagos Mainland II, noted that during a previous meeting with Ministry of Education officials, it was agreed that parents would continue paying the original fee of N35,000 until further review of the new charges could be conducted.
Gbolahan Yishawu, representing Eti-Osa Constituency II, highlighted that the fee increase was primarily attributed to rising student feeding costs. He called on the government to explore options to alleviate the financial burden on parents and provide necessary support.
Ongoing Issues for Students
In addition to the financial concerns, Bonu Solomon, representing Badagry I, raised issues reported by parents regarding students who cannot afford the new fees. He mentioned that these students are currently prohibited from purchasing food on school premises, which has exacerbated the situation.
Next Steps
The House of Assembly will await the education committee’s report before determining further actions regarding the boarding fee increase. The ongoing discussions aim to address both the financial implications for parents and the welfare of students in the model colleges.
