Parents kick as FG hikes PTA levy in Unity Colleges

By Alade Adisa

The federal government’s decision to increase the PTA levy in its unity colleges has sparked outrage among parents, who have expressed disgust over the more than 100 percent increase.

In a circular dated March 18, signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Education, Dr. Nasir Sani-Gwarzo, the government announced that the PTA levy would be increased from ₦5,700 to ₦12,000 per term.

The circular, addressed to all principals of Federal Unity Colleges (FUCs), stated:

“Following multiple requests from various PTA bodies in Federal Unity Colleges seeking an increase in the PTA levy to enable them to fulfill their obligations within the colleges, the ministry has approved a revised PTA levy. The new levy will take effect from the third term of the 2024/2025 academic session.”

However, parents across various unity colleges have expressed strong discontent, describing the increase as a disguised tuition hike.

Recall that just a few months ago, the government raised tuition fees from ₦45,000 to ₦100,000 per session. A parent whose daughter attends Federal Government College, Ijanikin, condemned the increase:

“This is uncalled for, especially at this time. People are already burdened by taxes, levies, and other payments to the government in various ways, and the economic hardship is overwhelming. In many unity colleges, the administration of the PTA levy has been a source of controversy.”

The parent further cited previous issues regarding mismanagement of PTA funds, raising concerns about accountability and transparency in handling the newly increased fees.

“Not long ago, the way the PTA levy was administered here led to court cases and media discussions. How can we be sure that funds generated through this increase will be properly managed? Some principals, in connivance with PTA leaders, are simply exploiting the levy for personal gain,” said Babatunde (surname withheld).

At King’s College, Lagos, the breakdown of mandatory PTA levies paid by parents includes: Access card: ₦1,000, diesel/Waste disposal: ₦4,000, education levy: ₦2,000, feeding support: ₦2,000, PTA levy: ₦5,000 and PTA teachers’ wages: ₦5,700

Meanwhile, optional PTA levies include: Laundry services: ₦9,000, barbing services: ₦1,000 and Mid-day meal: ₦15,000.

The controversy surrounding the PTA levy increase raises concerns about transparency, accountability, and the financial burden on parents. As discussions continue, parents are calling on the federal government and school authorities to reconsider the increment and ensure proper oversight in fund utilization.