The Niger State Government, through the Commissioner of Basic and Secondary Education, has announced the resumption of schools with a renewed commitment to the Federal and State Governments' free education policy. This initiative is aimed at ensuring accessible and affordable education for every child in the state.
Under this policy, parents and guardians are required to pay only PTA fees, which are structured as follows:
- Day students: ₦1,000
- Boarding students: ₦2,000
- Primary school students: ₦500
Key Directives for Compliance:
1. Teachers are strictly prohibited from collecting any fees beyond the PTA levy.
2. Every student must be assigned an index number by the Ministry of Education.
3. Admissions can only be processed through the Ministry, and no longer directly from schools.
4. Early Child Education (ECCED) will begin for children at the age of 3, with the issuance of index numbers starting from this level.
5. School leaving certificates are no longer required for progression.
6. Admission into Form 1 and SS 1 must be facilitated solely by the Ministry.
Governor Umar Muhammad Bago has further strengthened the state’s commitment to education by promising free school uniforms for all students across the state. However, parents are advised to note that any admission granted directly by schools, bypassing the Ministry, will result in the student forfeiting their index number and free uniform benefits.
The Ministry has urged parents, guardians, and educators to comply fully with these directives to ensure a smooth and transparent admission process and an enhanced academic experience for all students.
This free education initiative is a significant step towards making education more accessible to all children in Niger State. By limiting fees to just PTA contributions and offering free uniforms, the government aims to reduce the financial burden on families while ensuring that the education system remains efficient and accountable. The introduction of index numbers for all students provides an organized framework for tracking student progress and ensures that no child is left behind in terms of educational benefits. However, the success of this policy will depend largely on how well schools, teachers, and parents adhere to the new regulations. It also raises questions about the capacity of the Ministry to handle all admissions directly, which could potentially lead to administrative bottlenecks if not properly managed.
Do you believe that the free education policy in Niger State will effectively improve access to quality education, and what measures should be taken to ensure its smooth implementation across all schools?
