The Lagos State Government has announced that it will increase the boarding fees in its model colleges to ensure improved welfare for the students. This decision was outlined in a statement released by the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, signed by Mr Ganiu Lawal, the Deputy Director of Public Affairs.
Lawal emphasised that the current N35,000 boarding fee, which has been in place since 2021, is no longer feasible in 2024, considering the rising costs of maintaining the schools and providing adequate care for the students. He also highlighted that students in these boarding schools represent a small fraction—over one per cent—of the total student population in Lagos State public primary and secondary schools. The increase aims to sustain quality standards in the schools’ operations and student welfare.
Yes, the Lagos State Government recently approved an increase in boarding fees for public secondary schools across the state. This review is intended to address the rising cost of food and essential commodities, which have impacted the cost of maintaining boarding school facilities. The new fees are expected to help improve the quality of services provided in these schools, including better nutrition and overall welfare of students.
Lagos Government Gives Reasons For Increment of School Fees
The Lagos State Government has emphasised that this decision was made after consultations with various stakeholders, including parents and school management. However, it has sparked some reactions, with concerns about affordability for lower-income families. Despite these concerns, the government assures that efforts will be made to ensure that the quality of education and the welfare of students in public boarding schools remain top priorities.
The Lagos State Government has reviewed the boarding fees for all public secondary schools, with the new fee set at N100,000. This fee adjustment takes effect from the 2024/2025 academic session, starting on September 15, 2024.
Lawal, a ministry official, emphasised that the recent increase in boarding fees at model colleges was a difficult but necessary decision, prioritising the welfare of the students. He acknowledged the dissenting views from some parents but stressed that since enrolling a child in boarding school is a voluntary choice, parents are expected to cover boarding costs, which include feeding, janitorial services, and other essentials.
The schools also manage fuel and cooking gas expenses for preparing meals. While boarding fees cover these costs, students in the model colleges continue to enjoy free education benefits such as infrastructure, tuition, technology support, security, and government-paid WAEC fees.
Lawal further highlighted the importance of providing nutritious meals to promote both physical and mental growth, ensuring students remain alert and capable of critical thinking. He urged parents to cooperate with the government for the well-being of their children and to understand the reasoning behind the fee increase.
The Lagos State Government (LASG) offers free education across numerous primary, junior, and senior secondary schools, including the 32 model colleges, of which only Vetland Junior and Senior Secondary Schools operate as day schools.
