The Ogun State Government has unequivocally declared it illegal for school heads in both public primary and secondary schools across the state to collect any form of fees, levies, or payments from students, emphasizing that its policy entails fully government-sponsored free education.
This announcement was made by Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, the Commissioner of Education, Science, and Technology, during a Pre-Resumption Meeting with Education Stakeholders in the State for the 2023/2024 Academic Session held in Abeokuta.
Prof. Arigbabu underscored that the cost of materials, maintenance, and the provision of facilities in schools is entirely covered by the administration of Prince Dapo Abiodun. He reminded everyone that the current administration, from its inception, abolished all forms of payments to encourage children to access high-quality education without any financial burden. He emphasized that it is illegal for any school head to collect any type of levy.
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The Commissioner urged Principals and Headteachers to promote excellence in their respective schools. He also emphasized that individuals wishing to make donations to schools or use school facilities for events must obtain government-approved permits to ensure that academic activities are not disrupted.
Additionally, Prof. Arigbabu disclosed that the government is working on enhancing security measures in schools. He called on school administrators to foster religious tolerance and avoid actions that could bring the state into disrepute.
Evang. Olalekan Ifede, the Chairman of the Ogun State Teaching Service Commission, encouraged school heads to be punctual and serve as role models for both teaching and non-teaching staff to maintain educational standards.
In her opening remarks, Mrs. Abosede Ogunleye, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology, highlighted that the discussions and decisions made during the meeting would contribute to the effective implementation of government policies on education.
The State Chairmen of the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools and the Association of Primary School Headteachers of Nigeria, Mr. Adeyinka Adekoya and Mr. Dauda Sanusi, expressed their appreciation for the approval and release of promotions and palliatives by the Prince Dapo Abiodun administration, which was aimed at mitigating the impact of fuel subsidy removal for the workforce in the State.
