Tuition Fees at Enugu State Private Schools Surge Over 35% Amid Tax Increases
Private schools in Enugu State have raised their tuition fees by more than 35% due to the government's hike in taxes and charges. This increase has placed a heavy burden on parents and guardians, making it difficult for many to cope financially.
In some cases, fees have soared by 50%, with certain institutions now facing tax payments exceeding N2 million. For example, schools that previously charged between N19,000 and N30,000 have now raised their fees to N50,000. This sharp rise follows the introduction of a new tax structure that mandates even the smallest private schools to pay a minimum of N1 million in taxes.
The situation is alarming, as education—a fundamental right—is becoming increasingly unaffordable for many families. A report obtained by SaharaReporters indicates that the Enugu State government has imposed charges on private schools exceeding N3.4 million through various channels.
The document highlights the government's aggressive revenue collection strategies, which are significantly affecting school enrollment across the state. This stands in stark contrast to the government's assertion that it only collects between N100,000 and N300,000, based on school categories. However, evidence shows that the actual amounts collected exceed N1.45 million under various designations. Additionally, the government is leveraging multiple agencies to impose further taxes, such as environmental health inspection fees and charges from the Enugu Waste Management Authority (ESWMA).
The document titled "2024 Enugu State Revised Schools Licensing Fees Regulation," REF: ENS/MOE/POLICY/0003, dated June 3, 2024, was signed by the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ndubueze Mbah. It states that, in accordance with the Education Law Cap 37 and the Enugu State Education (Amendment) Law 2017, these measures are intended to ensure minimum educational standards and regulate private schools within the Basic and Post-Basic Education system.