Schools Demand US$200 Registration Fees From Grade 7, Form One Applicants

The government has warned schools against illegally charging registration and enrolment fees, calling the practice exploitative, discriminatory, and a clear breach of national education policies.

The move comes after reports that parents applying for Grade 1 and Form 1 places are being forced to pay unauthorised fees before their children’s applications are even considered.

Some schools are said to be demanding between US$100 and US$200 just for registration, while others ask for upfront payments labelled as enrolment, administrative, or processing fees. A few are even requesting full fees before the new school year begins.

Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education spokesperson Taungana Ndoro told State media that these charges are illegal and warned that the ministry is ready to take firm action against offending schools. He said:

“No public school is permitted to charge registration or enrolment fees, none whatsoever.

“Any school found demanding money before a learner is placed will be acting outside the law, and the ministry will institute disciplinary measures.

“Parents must be aware of their rights and report these illegal practices immediately.

“All fees are applied for and approved through the ministry. We conduct audits to verify and authenticate such funds.”