Presidential Spokesman Urges Parents to Report Schools Over Excessive Fees

Presidential Spokesman Alpha Khan has called on parents to report schools allegedly demanding excessive payments during student enrollment, while clarifying the Government’s role under the free education programme.

Speaking on SLIKE TV, Khan explained that the Government continues to cover major educational costs under its education initiative, including school fees, core textbooks, and learning and teaching materials for teachers.

He clarified, however, that certain items required during school enrollment are not covered by the Government.

“The Government said they will pay the school fees, buy the core books and provide learning and teaching materials for teachers. That is the extent Government is doing,” he stated.

Khan noted that expenses such as school uniforms, badges, and other related items are considered separate costs handled by schools and parents.

“The schools also have costs which are not government costs,” he added while addressing concerns over charges imposed during enrollment processes.

He nevertheless urged parents and guardians to speak out against schools demanding what he described as excessive or unreasonable fees beyond approved requirements.

The remarks come amid growing public concern over enrollment-related costs in some schools despite the ongoing implementation of the Government’s free quality education initiative in Sierra Leone.