In a decisive move to uphold the integrity of the admission process for the 2024 academic year, the Ondo State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Mr. Olaolu Akindolire, has sternly cautioned heads of public schools in the state against the collection of unapproved levies from prospective students seeking admission into public primary and secondary institutions.
This warning comes in response to alarming reports suggesting that some school administrators are imposing additional fees beyond those sanctioned by the state government during the current admission exercise.
Mr. Akindolire emphasized the importance of adhering to the state’s guidelines, stating, “The state government had made available the approved list of collectibles in both public primary and secondary schools to all principals, headmasters and other heads of public institutions across the state.”
He further insisted on the necessity of easing the financial burden on parents, reiterating that any unauthorized fees would not be tolerated. The official circular, signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Mrs. Folasade Adegoke, outlines the approved fees for new students: a total of N5,000 for public primary school entrants and no more than N14,000 for those entering public secondary schools. This amount covers various essential services, including PTA levies, examinations, ICT, sports development, utilities, medical care, security, entrepreneurial education, and administrative charges for external exams.
Moreover, the circular specifies that new intakes are required to present certain items during the registration process, including a hoe, a cutlass, a locker and chair, a broom, and two file jackets. Mr. Akindolire made it clear that school heads are not authorized to collect money for textbooks or school uniforms, stating, “They are to provide parents/guardians with the sample of recommended uniform and list of recommended textbooks.”
The commissioner concluded with a strong admonition to school principals and headteachers, urging them to refrain from collecting additional items or imposing extra charges beyond those outlined in the state government’s circular, thus ensuring a fair and transparent admission process for all students.