The Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) of Federal Unity Colleges in Nigeria has disputed the claims made by Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, that unity colleges charge N20 million admission fees. The PTA described the allegations as serious and unfounded, demanding transparency and accountability in the management of unity colleges. In a statement signed by Somefun Ayopo, Southwest zonal coordinator, and Peter Oluwaseye, Chairman of the King’s College, Lagos PTA, the association called for evidence to support the minister's claims.
The controversy surrounding unity colleges' admission fees is linked to the proposed concession of King’s College, Lagos. The PTA is seeking clarity on the legal basis of the arrangement and full disclosure on the circumstances surrounding the institution’s management. The association emphasized that stakeholders deserve to know the details of the concession agreement, including its duration, financial commitments, and performance indicators. This demand is part of a broader call for transparency in the management of unity colleges.
The PTA leadership stressed that they are not admission officers or contractors seeking to take over government schools, but rather parents defending the educational heritage of their children and the integrity of public education in Nigeria. They asked when PTA chairmen became admission officers of the Federal Ministry of Education. The association challenged the Ministry of Education to provide concrete evidence, including specific schools, dates, bank accounts, and admission documents, to support the allegations.
The PTA also debunked claims that its members raised or paid between N100 million and N150 million in legal fees, stating that such claims are verifiable matters of fact that should be withdrawn if false. The association clarified that it does not oppose government development policies but objects to any process that alters the management of national educational heritage without sufficient transparency, stakeholder consultation, and legal compliance.
The chairmen called for complete disclosure regarding the King’s College concession agreement, including safeguards for students and staff. They maintained that philanthropy is not synonymous with institutional ownership, expressing respect for alumni associations. The PTA's demands are aimed at ensuring that the management of unity colleges is transparent and accountable.
The controversy surrounding unity colleges has sparked concerns about the management of public education in Nigeria. The PTA's call for transparency and accountability reflects the need for clarity in the management of educational institutions. The association's demands are also linked to the proposed concession of King’s College, Lagos, which has sparked debate about the role of private entities in public education.
The Federal Unity Colleges' PTA has urged the Ministry of Education to provide evidence to support the allegations against PTA chairmen and to ensure transparency in the management of unity colleges. The association's statement reflects the concerns of parents and stakeholders about the management of public education in Nigeria.
Key points
- - The PTA disputes the N20 million admission fee claims made by Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa. - The association demands transparency and accountability in the management of unity colleges. - The controversy is linked to the proposed concession of King’s College, Lagos.
