The Lagos State Government has announced a significant increase in boarding fees for its model colleges, effective from the 2024/2025 academic session. The new fee, set at N100,000 per session, replaces the previous fee of N35,000, which had remained unchanged since 2021.
According to Ganiu Lawal, Deputy Director of Public Affairs at the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, the fee hike is necessary to ensure better welfare and living conditions for students. The increased fee will cover feeding, janitorial, and other miscellaneous costs.
Lawal explained that the government prioritizes student welfare and aims to provide nutritious food, essential for physical growth and mental alertness. He emphasized that the government takes responsibility for students’ health and well-being while in school, but requires cooperation from stakeholders.
The Lagos State Government provides free education in over 1,700 primary and secondary schools, including 32 model colleges.
While acknowledging potential dissent from parents, Lawal stressed that the decision was unavoidable, citing rising costs and the need for quality education.