As primary and secondary schools in Ondo state prepare to resume for the 2023/2024 academic session, parents and guardians have raised alarm over increase in prices of textbooks, stationery and other school items.
A visit to some major markets and book stores in Akure reveals that the increased market prices of school materials were due to the current inflation occasioned by the removal of subsidy on premium Motor spirit popularly known as Petrol.
As students prepare to resume for 2023 2024 academic session, parents have raised concerns over the high cost of textbooks and some essential learning aids.
Investigations by Orange fm reveals that the price of a dozen higher education notes has increased from 5000 to 6000 while prices of a dozen of 40 and 60 leaves notebooks increase from 1,500 to 2000 to 1700 and 2500 respectively.
A book seller, Chidiebere Ukata shared her thoughts on the high cost of textbooks.
Some parents including Benedicta Amadi and Blessing Ugorji noted that the cost of uniforms and other learning materials are on the increase calling on governments quick intervention.
Others including Omogo Esther and ken Wilfred urged the state ministry of education to help regulate activities of private school owners to check mate exorbitant prices of learning materials.
While lamenting the stress parents and guardians are passing through, students including Daniel Jaja and Victor Michael said their parents now find the prices of books, uniforms and sandals unaffordable in the market.
Stakeholders have however enjoined government at all levels to put adequate measures in place to address all challenges that could jeopardize provision of quality education.