Our reporter
The Lagos State government has introduced a compulsory fee of N10, 000 for Senior Secondary Three (SS3) students intending to register for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) in state secondary schools.
The initiative, which falls under a wider government strategy aimed at increasing tax compliance among citizens, is expected to bolster the State’s revenue, according to officials from the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS). They maintain that the revenue generated from this tax will be channelled towards the upkeep and enhancement of educational facilities, thereby improving the quality of education provided to students.
Despite the government’s assurances that WASSCE registration remains free for those meeting tax obligations, many families are expressing concern over the financial implications. Critics argue that imposing this tax could place an additional burden on low-income households, who are already grappling with various educational costs, such as uniforms, textbooks, and transportation fees.
Educational advocates warn that the tax clearance requirement could disproportionately affect vulnerable students, potentially leading to higher dropout rates as families prioritise immediate financial needs over long-term educational commitments. There are fears that the initiative could create a barrier to education, particularly for those from less affluent backgrounds.
Responses from parents have been mixed – while some acknowledge the need for improved educational resources, many are urging the government to reconsider this policy, claiming it places undue stress on families during a period of economic hardship.
Educators also have divergent views on the mandate. Some support the idea of fostering civic responsibility through tax compliance, while others caution that it risks deepening existing inequalities within the education sector.
Defending the new tax, government officials have described it as a vital step towards enhancing public services through better tax collection. They encourage parents to perceive this fee as a necessary investment in their children’s future and the overall advancement of the education system in Lagos.
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