As part of efforts to cushion the effect of the rising cost of living in the wake of the petroleum subsidy removal, the Kaduna State Government has reduced tuition fees for state-owned tertiary institutions. The fees were slashed between 30 and 50 per cent for students of the Kaduna State University, Nuhu Bamali Polytechnic, and Kaduna State College of Education, Gidan Waya, among others.
According to the state governor, Uba Sani, the move was in response to an outcry over fees charged by tertiary institutions in the state and its effect on school enrolment and retention. “In response to the public outcry over the current fees being charged by tertiary institutions in Kaduna State and its effect on school enrolment and retention, I have approved the downward review of school fees for tertiary institutions in the state”, Sani said.
The governor has made commendable efforts in reducing tuition fees in higher institutions within the state, which is a step towards alleviating the financial burden on parents and guardians. This move comes at a time when the removal of fuel subsidy has resulted in a higher cost of living for many Nigerians. By addressing the issue of exorbitant tuition fees, the governor has demonstrated a commitment to ensuring that education remains accessible and affordable for all.
This initiative is noteworthy as it not only supports the aspirations of students but also acknowledges the challenges faced by families in meeting the rising costs of education. Indeed, the governor’s decision to reduce tuition fees in higher institutions is a welcome development that will positively impact the lives of many, providing them with much-needed relief amidst the prevailing economic circumstances.
Education is an essential element for the holistic development of individuals and societies. It equips people with knowledge, skills and critical thinking abilities necessary for personal growth and contribution to their communities. Any government that denies its citizens access to education not only hampers their potential but also undermines the progress of the nation as a whole.
Governor Sani’s decision to slash fees and make education more affordable is a huge relief for parents and guardians. In these difficult times, when many families are facing financial hardships, it is necessary to prioritise accessible education. The government’s reduction of school fees can alleviate the burden on students and their families, ensuring that education remains within reach for all. This approach not only promotes equal opportunities but also invests in the future of the nation.
Other states should follow suit and adopt similar measures to ensure that education remains accessible to all, regardless of their financial circumstances. The governments should alleviate the burden on families and students who are struggling to make ends meet during this difficult period. This proactive approach will not only contribute to the well-being and development of individuals, but also to the overall growth and progress of the nation.
The reported increases in tuition fees by various tertiary institutions, especially the Federal Government-owned schools is unrealistic, a step hostile to education and the development of Nigeria’s human capital. It is unrealistic for the reasons that the sudden percentage rise as applicable to each institution is too steep, and the general income level of fee paying parents and guardians cannot by commonsense calculation sustain these fees.
That is why the Federal Government under President Bola Tinubu should take inspiration from the actions of Sani and strive to emulate his approach. He has to implement a reduction in the various fees and levies in higher institutions owned by the Federal Government. Tinubu should recall his promise to Nigerians during the electioneering period that no federal university student would drop out on account of exorbitant school fees if he became the country’s president.
The Nigerian constitution emphasises the government’s responsibility to ensure the security and well-being of its people, with education being second only to health. It directs the government in Section 18(1) to ensure equal educational opportunities at all levels, a fundamental objective of state policy. University education is critical for developing highly educated persons with superior thinking and leadership qualities, as it enables a society aiming for development.
A British statesman and abolitionist, Henry Peter Brougham, asserted that education makes a people easy to lead, but difficult to drive, easy to govern, but impossible to enslave. If we agree with Lord Brougham (which is highly likely), it logically follows that less educated individuals are more vulnerable to enslavement. This raises the question of whether the intentional neglect of education by Nigerian leaders, in terms of budget, teacher training, infrastructure development, and resource allocation, could be attributed to this understanding.
Indeed, the Kaduna governor’s resolve to cut fees of higher institutions in his state is a demonstration of his unwavering dedication to the principles of democracy, social justice, and inclusivity. This decision is a cause for celebration as it underscores the hierarchisation of the welfare of the people under his administration. Sani has exhibited a genuine understanding of the pivotal role education plays in fostering a progressive society. His audacious move emblazons his commitment to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their socio-economic background, has equal access to quality education.