(JUBA) – The Ministry of General Education and Instruction has cautioned schools and teachers across South Sudan against charging pupils and parents fees beyond the official rates set for national examinations. The ministry has said it will take legal action against any institution or teacher found guilty of overcharging.
According to the official directive, candidates in Primary 8 classes are required to pay 80,000 South Sudanese Pounds (SSP), equivalent to about 17 US dollars, if they are enrolled in public schools. Those in private schools are expected to pay 120,000 SSP, which amounts to around 26 US dollars.
The ministry explained that the payments are intended to cover the costs of marking exams and to prevent delays in the release of results. Officials said they had received reports of schools demanding far higher fees, which they described as unfair exploitation of parents and pupils.
Simon Nyok, the Secretary General of the National Examination Council, said that penalties were being prepared for institutions and individuals engaged in the malpractice. He stressed that education authorities at national and state levels would work with governors to enforce compliance with the set charges.
“Some schools have already been reported for demanding extra money from candidates, and this is not acceptable. We will not allow parents and children to be exploited in the name of examinations,” Nyok said.
Parents have expressed concern that rising inflation in South Sudan has already placed immense pressure on household budgets.
Official examination fees as set by the Ministry of General Education and Instruction
| School Type | Official Exam Fee (SSP) | Approx. USD |
|---|---|---|
| Public School | 80,000 SSP | 17 USD |
| Private School | 120,000 SSP | 26 USD |
Education stakeholders warned that attempts by schools to charge beyond these rates could worsen inequality, as some children may be unable to sit their final exams due to financial barriers.
The ministry has called on parents and guardians to report any cases of overcharging to state education offices or directly to the National Examination Council.
