Private Schools To Stop School Bus Due To Petrol Price

Abayomi Otubela, President of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools, has stated that due to the increase in petrol pump prices, some private schools may cease bus services and parents will be asked to seek alternative modes of transportation for their kids to school.

In a chat with Punch, Otubela said; “Undoubtedly, this is a challenging time for all, touching every sector of the economy, private schools not exempted. In response to these challenges, we came together as an association reasoned, and sought the contributions of experts regarding the situation. We realised that we need to tighten our belts to remain afloat.

“We decided that there was a need to reduce some activities that are not directly necessary to academic activities to reduce cost. We also agreed that we will focus only on core curricular activities that can make an immediate impact. It was also agreed that some of our social activities that involve financial expenses would be reduced, while we consider the suggestions to get staff quarters within the school environment to reduce transportation cost of teachers and other staff.”

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According to Otubela, a rise in the pay of teachers and other personnel is unavoidable but cannot be done without an equal increase in school expenses and other expenses.

He further stated that guardians and parents should be ready to spend more.

“Surely, parents would feel the impact of this decision. Many of our member schools have parked their school buses because of the huge cost of running them. Besides, it was never profitable. Parents would have to choose hostel facilities or find other means of bringing their children to school. But we are also looking at support from the government to secure a loan at a single-digit interest. We have suggested the establishment of an education bank where the government can make funds available for investors in the education sector to develop themselves and facilities,” he added.

According to the NAPPS President, private schools need help.

“Unknown to many people, many of the private schools are running at a loss, while many are running as charity organisations,” he stated.