The Minister of General Education in Eastern Equatoria State, Sammy Lopeyok Aperengole, has warned private schools against increasing tuition fees as the 2026 academic year begins.
Speaking on Friday at a meeting with primary and secondary headteachers at the Torit Municipal Council, Aperengole stressed the importance of keeping education affordable amid rising living costs.
“As leaders in education, you have a responsibility to ensure schooling remains accessible for all students. Parents are already struggling; increasing fees further will only add to their burden,” he said.
The minister encouraged parents to continue supporting schools financially, emphasizing the role of education in societal development. He also criticized schools for charging high fees while receiving government-provided learning materials and teachers from community schools.
“In many cases, transferring children from public to private schools can lead to disappointment. I advise parents to keep their children in public schools, where they can receive quality education without unmanageable financial strain,” Aperengole added.
He also called on teachers to prioritize their students and formally notify authorities if they wish to resign for better opportunities.
Alphonse Muras Chacha, chairperson of the Standing Specialized Committee for Education at the Eastern Equatoria State Legislative Assembly, backed the minister’s call, urging schools to put students’ education ahead of profit.
“An educated population is key to reducing issues such as rebellion, cattle raiding, and theft. Educators should work with parents to ensure financial difficulties do not impede learning,” Chacha said.