High operating costs fuel tuition hikes, says school founder

The Founder/Chairman of De Dynamic Private Schools, Dr Ibrahim Bello, has attributed rising tuition fees in private schools to increasing operational costs.

Bello spoke during the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the school in Ota, Ogun State.

His comments came amid fee increases by some private primary and secondary schools ahead of the resumption of schools for the 2026/2027 academic session.

A recent PUNCH report found that proprietors increased their school fees by between 10 and 30 per cent, citing rising costs of fuel, transportation, rent, infrastructure, textbooks and teachers’ salaries.

Bello called on the government to create an enabling environment for school businesses to thrive and reduce multiple taxes.

Bello said, “Operational cost is the topmost challenge the business of running a school faces. Those complaining about high tuition fees should understand what school owners also go through.”

He, however, admonished parents not to be deterred by the current economic situation but to prioritise the education of their wards and children.

Bello urged them to see the education of their children as an investment that they would reap from in the future.

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He said, “Despite the tight economy, parents should see the education of their children as an investment they will reap from later. They should save for today so that they can spend tomorrow.

“The education of their children is investing in tomorrow. They should give their children quality education, so that their children will be their joy tomorrow.”

Speaking, the Proprietress, Aramide Bello, advised prospective school owners not to be in a hurry to recoup their investments, adding that they must have enough funds to run the school before it breaks even.

She said the school remained committed to its vision to provide quality education, nurture good character, and raise children who would become responsible, successful, and valuable members of society.

The guest speaker, Dr Eddy Ademosu, emphasised the role of private schools in the education sector, referencing a UNESCO study that showed that at least 40 per cent of students attend private schools.

Olawale Franklin Akinselure is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with 12 years of experience covering education, politics, health, environment, judiciary, metro, and community beats. He specializes in producing insightful, wide-ranging reports that inform and engage readers. His reporting reflects practical newsroom experience, editorial insight, and a dedication to accurate, reliable journalism.