The Lagos State Ministry of Education has warned private schools in the state to shun the idea of resuming for the third term academic session until the lockdown period is over.
In a statement on Thursday, Folasade Adefisayo, commissioner for education, said some private schools are charging parents for third term tuition for online classes.
She said that the state government would intensify efforts in the ongoing free teachings on various media, especially radio and television, rather than reopening schools and endangering the lives of pupils.
She said, “The attention of the Lagos State Ministry of Education has been drawn to the plans by some private schools in the state to resume academic activities for the third term of the 2019/20 session by online teaching. This is with effect from Monday, April 27, 2020.
“Please, note that the third term resumption remains postponed until directives to the contrary. Most schools are charging for this online service; often at a discount on existing tuition fees while some schools are charging full fees.
“Parents are concerned about the cost to them of this programme, ranging from fees charged by schools to cost of data and devices as well as the cost of fuelling generators to ensure steady electricity power supply.
“Parents also have to supervise online teachings to guard against the exposure of children to pornography, in addition to online harassment and bullying.
“In view of the aforementioned, we ask that schools consult extensively with parents and find a win-win solution that will be acceptable to all stakeholders.”
The commisioner appealed to the proprietors to persevere and adopt the online teaching strategy to keep their students busy while staying at home to avoid contracting COVID-19.
