In Lagos State, some students attending public secondary schools may miss out on registering for this year’s West African Senior Secondary School Certificate Examinations (WASSCE) due to the challenges of their parents affording a required N8,100 levy. While the Lagos State government covers WASSCE fees for public school students, parents in the informal sector are obligated to pay the levy, presenting an obstacle for those facing financial constraints.
A recent report by Adesina Wahab highlights instances where students, whose parents couldn’t pay the levy, were initially excluded from the free registration process, which had a deadline set by WAEC. However, the situation took a positive turn when WAEC extended the registration period until February 24, 2024.
Economic difficulties in the country have left some parents unable to fulfill this financial obligation. A concerned parent from Igbo Owu Senior Secondary School shared her struggles, emphasizing the challenges faced by individuals in the informal sector. Despite appreciating the state government’s effort to cover exam fees, she urged consideration for parents who lack tax clearance certificates due to informal employment.
In response, the Commissioner for Secondary and Basic Education, Hon Jamiu Alli-Balogun, defended the state government’s stance, commending it for easing the financial burden on parents. He clarified that the N8,100 levy, which is less than N650 monthly, is aimed at parents in the informal sector, without the need for tax clearance certificates. Alli-Balogun argued that considering the government’s substantial investment in covering WAEC fees for public school students, the levy serves as a reasonable contribution from parents.
The commissioner downplayed concerns about missed deadlines, stating that the deadline issue falls under WAEC’s jurisdiction, not specifically Lagos State. He emphasized the importance of parents demonstrating commitment and responsibility by contributing to the education system through the prescribed levy.
