… Cautions Against Unauthorized Fees
The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the full funding of Federal Technical Colleges (FTCs) across the nation, to enhance accessibility to technical education for all Nigerian children.
In a statement release on Wednesday, by Folasade Boriowo, Director of Press and Public Relations, the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, emphasized that tuition will be entirely free for all students, with the government also covering various approved expenses including boarding, uniforms, textbooks, and other essential supplies.
Dr. Alausa cautioned that principals and administrators are strictly prohibited from demanding unauthorized payments from parents or guardians.
He instructed that circulars reiterating this policy will be distributed to all schools and parents to ensure compliance.
“No Nigerian child should be denied access to technical education because of illegal charges.
“By investing in education today, we are building a stronger, self-reliant Nigeria,”
he stated.
According to the Minister, Parents are encouraged to report any illegal financial demands to the Ministry of Education through the designated hotline numbers: 0803 657 6733 and 0803 637 3796, or via email at tse@education.gov.ng.
He said, while the government is covering the costs of tuition and core expenses, students in boarding facilities are expected to provide certain personal items. Detailed guidelines outlining these items were shared in the release, including essentials such as bedding, toiletries, and specific clothing items for religious observances.
Adding that this initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places a high priority on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a critical component of human capital development aimed at empowering youth with employable skills.
The government’s commitment comes at a vital time as it seeks to enhance national progress and competitiveness.
To ensure compliance with this policy, the Ministry of Education has implemented monitoring mechanisms that will promptly address any infractions. Stakeholders in the educational sector are called upon to uphold the free-education policy and ensure that Federal Technical Colleges remain committed to producing skilled graduates vital for national transformation.
Dr. Alausa reiterated the government’s commitment to making technical education both accessible and affordable for every Nigerian child, reinforcing the belief that education is a critical investment in the nation’s future.