Free Education: Soludo Charges Bishops to Reduce Fees in Mission Schools

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

The Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has appealed to leaders of churches who operate mission schools in the state to reduce their fees to give every child equal opportunity.

Soludo made the appeal on Saturday at Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka, during a prayer rally organised by the Anglican Communion to pray for peace and progress of the state.

The governor had recently declared tuition free education for all children in the state who attend government schools, from nursery all the way through junior secondary.

The governor said: “There is work to be done, and while we are yet on earth, we will continue to do our own part.

“But I want to appeal to our bishops and leaders of our churches. The church must also play its part too, because I know that the church has a role to play too.

“We have declared free education in all schools owned by government. We want to also beg churches that operate schools to also reduce their school fees.

“So that the woman who sells pepper in the market, the woman who hawks groundnut will be able to pay fees for her children in your schools too.

“I’m also appealing about the levies that church demands from its members. We know that you have projects, but projects can never end today or tomorrow. So we can use part of these monies to augment the fees for the poor.”

The governor appreciated the church for their role in building a modest society through evangelism, quality education and healthcare.

He promised to keep doing his best to enthrone a peaceful and progressive Anambra State, adding that the agenda of a livable and prosperous Anambra State.  

He pledged to always partner with the church to sustain positive change and promised to keep giving value to Ndi Anambra all through his administration.