When a parent is required to provide tax-related documentation before a child can complete the school admission process, the cost becomes an additional barrier to education.
Education is widely regarded as one of the most powerful tools for breaking the cycle of poverty and building a productive society. In Lagos State, where the government has invested heavily in education and human capital development, every policy that affects a child's ability to enter school deserves careful consideration.
The reported increase in the cost of obtaining tax clearance for children seeking admission into Junior Secondary School (JSS) and Senior Secondary School (SSS), from ₦10,100 to ₦20,100, represents a 100 percent increase. While tax administration and revenue generation are important responsibilities of government, the unintended consequences of such charges on vulnerable families must not be overlooked.
A Question of Access to Education For many low-income families, particularly those living in densely populated communities, ₦20,100 is not a small amount. It can represent several days of income, money for food, transportation, school materials or other essential household needs.
When a parent is required to provide tax-related documentation before a child can complete the school admission process, the cost becomes an additional barrier to education.
