As schools across Nigeria resume for the new academic session, many parents are grappling with the financial strain caused by the recent hike in petrol prices. This increase has led to a rise in costs associated with education, including transportation, school supplies, and tuition fees.
In Lagos, where many families rely on private vehicles or public transportation for school commutes, the situation is particularly challenging. Mrs. Adebayo, a mother of two, noted that her monthly fuel expenses have surged from ₦20,000 to nearly ₦60,000, making it difficult to maintain her children’s schooling.
Public transportation fares have also tripled in major cities. In Abuja, Mr. David, a civil servant, mentioned that his daily commuting costs have jumped from ₦500 to ₦1,500, putting additional pressure on his unchanged salary.
The start of the 2024 school year has also brought about significant tuition fee increases. Many private schools have raised fees sharply to cover rising operational costs such as fuel for generators and staff transportation. Mrs. Adeyemi from Ibadan was surprised to find her children’s school fees had risen by nearly 70%, attributing the increase to fuel prices and inflation, and expressing concern over the lack of financial support for parents.
Public schools are facing their own challenges as increased demand from parents moving their children from private institutions has put pressure on the system. Overcrowded classrooms, inadequate facilities, and teacher shortages are affecting the quality of education. Mr. Sunday, who transferred his children from a private to a public school, expressed worry about the overcrowded conditions and potential decline in educational quality.