House of Representatives is considering the introduction of semester-based school fees in tertiary institutions in the country.

This followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Mr Sa’ad Taura at the plenary presided by the Deputy Speaker, Mr Benjamin Kalu.

Taura, representing Taura/Ringim Federal Constituency of Jigawa State, justified the initiative, saying it was in tandem with international best practices.

The lawmaker argued that annual school fee payment in Nigeria presents financial challenges for students and families, given the recent subsidy removal and single-window forex policy.

He contended that adopting the payment system can minimise the financial strain on students, improve access to higher education and create a more transparent financial structure for institutions.

He cited the resolve by international universities, including the University of California and the University of Sydney, to implement semester-based fee payment systems to maximise financial convenience and reduce the strain on students and parents to buttress his assertion.

The House mandated its committees on University Education, Polytechnics and Higher Technical Education, and Federal Colleges of Education to probe into the viability of adopting a semester-based school fee payment system while considering the specific needs and circumstances of each institution.

The House also urged the Federal Ministry of Education to work closely with institutions and stakeholders in the education sector to provide necessary support towards adopting the school fee payment system.

The committee is to report back within four weeks for further legislative action. (The Guardian)

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