The Enugu State Government has issued a formal clarification regarding recent misunderstandings about educational taxes imposed on private schools. Contrary to claims circulating that the administration of Governor Peter Mbah has levied exorbitant fees ranging from ₦1 million to ₦5 million, the actual fees for private schools are significantly lower, ranging between ₦100,000 and ₦300,000.
Prof. Ndubueze, Enugu’s Commissioner for Education, addressed these concerns in a recent statement, explaining that private schools in the state are required to pay between ₦100,000 and ₦300,000 for either registration or the renewal of their licenses. The specific amount depends on the category of the school, and the approved fee schedule was released to the public earlier in June.
The Commissioner emphasized that these fees are part of the state’s efforts to uphold minimum educational standards and enhance the administration, monitoring, and supervision of private schools. He noted that the Ministry of Education is empowered by extant laws to ensure both public and private educational institutions meet these standards.
Prof. Ndubueze attributed the spread of misinformation to fears among some private school operators who are concerned about the legal consequences of operating without proper licensing. Unlicensed schools face severe penalties, including up to 10 years of imprisonment and possible closure, which may have prompted these unfounded claims.
He assured that the government remains resolute in its mission to maintain high standards in the educational sector and ensure that only licensed and compliant schools operate within Enugu State. The Ministry of Education, under Governor Mbah’s administration, has conducted several engagements with stakeholders to review and discuss the 2024 Enugu State Schools Licensing Fees Regulation.
Prof. Ndubueze concluded by affirming the government’s commitment to the reforms and its determination to combat illegal and unscrupulous practices in the education sector, ensuring that the future of Enugu’s children is not compromised by unregulated educational institutions.
