Education Minister instructs schools not to increase fees this academic year

 

Concerned about exorbitant fees being imposed by some schools, Education Minister Karl Samuda has instructed public schools not to increase their fees for the upcoming academic year.

 

Speaking in the House of Representatives Tuesday afternoon, Mr. Samuda said the exorbitant fees being charged are untenable.

 

He also stressed that any fees charged by public schools must not be mandatory.

 

"Students should not be denied entry into schools because their parents are unable to pay. Parents should not be forced to pay any contribution or made to feel that as if they must pay the contribution as a requirement for registration, school access and attendance or criteria for graduation, examination slips, application of sixth form, or access to any public service at a public educations institution," he declared.  

 

Additionally, Mr. Samuda said the price of registration packages must be capped at $5,000 for this school year. Schools should also outline what the package entails to justify the need for the fees. He said items such as IDs, insurance, PE uniforms and school ties should not be included in the school package but should be itemised for purchase separately.