Lakes State Education Minister Warns Schools Against hiking Exam Fees

By Mayak Majak Madit Tokjok

The Minister of General Education and Instruction in Lakes State, Nelson Makoi Makur, has issued a warning to schools that any institution charging learners more than the approved national examination fees—80,000 SSP for government schools and 120,000 SSP for private schools—will face legal action.

He emphasised that attempts to increase these fees are an offence under the Education Act, and state authorities will take immediate action against any violators.

“The registration fees were established by the National Ministry of General Education and Instruction, signed by Hon. Dr. Kuyok Abol Kuyok and the Vice President for the Economic Cluster, H.E. Benjamin Bol Mel. According to the directive, the Primary Education Certificate registration fee is 80,000 SSP for government schools, and for private schools, the fee is 120,000 SSP,” Makur confirmed during a press statement on Wednesday.

He warned that any school found charging learners more than the approved examination fees set by the National Examination Council and endorsed by both the national government and state authorities will be committing an offence under the Education Act.

Makur stressed that the official registration fees for both primary and secondary examinations are fixed, and any extra charges collected must be refunded to the learners, regardless of whether the school is government, private, or faith-based.

“While the fee for secondary examinations in government schools should be 120,000 SSP, private and faith-based schools are instructed to register at 220,000 SSP. This official circular must be respected and enforced across the state, as no additional charges should be imposed,” he stated.

He acknowledged the economic hardships faced nationwide and recognised the commitment of teachers, who continue to transform lives by delivering quality education despite not receiving monthly salaries.

Makur noted that the government is working hard to ensure the timely disbursement of salaries to all civil servants, with teachers prioritised as key contributors to the nation’s future through quality education.

He further revealed that some schools in Awerial County have been completely submerged by floods, while those in Rumbek North County will soon be cut off. Schools in Anuol, Yirol West County, are also facing similar threats.

“The State Ministry of Education is working closely with communities to relocate schools to higher ground where flooding has displaced them,” Makur said. He added that the Governor of Lakes State, Gen. Rin Tueny, has officially formed a State Task Force on Flooding to oversee risk areas and support affected populations. The initiative will also help ensure displaced families are resettled in highland areas alongside other communities to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts.