In a move to regulate private education costs, the Kaduna State Government has issued a strict directive that all private schools must obtain written approval before increasing their fees.
The Kaduna State Schools Quality Assurance Authority (KSSQAA) stated this in a circular dated 7th September, 2023, signed by Mercy Bainta Kude, Director, Private Schools Department (PSD), For: Director-General (KSSQAA).
The letter, addressed to all private school proprietors, reminded them that increasing school fees “without the approval of KSSQAA” is a violation of their operating terms.
This enforcement comes at a time when the state government is reducing fees in its own institutions. The authority said private school owners are “enjoined to strictly abide by the extant regulatory requirements,” and emphasised that it is their responsibility to keep abreast of government regulations.
For an application to be considered, the school must meet several conditions. A previous fee increment must have lasted for at least three years. Furthermore, any proposed hike must be agreed upon by the school’s Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) in a meeting with “an acceptable quorum.”
The school must then submit a formal application letter. This letter must include the “express approval of the Director-General, KSSQAA,” and be accompanied by typed minutes of the PTA meeting and handwritten attendance sheets.
The application must also clearly state the reasons for the proposed increase. Schools are required to provide their current enrolment figures for each level and clearly list both the old and new fees for all classes.
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