By Peter Omopo
September 6, 2025 | Dutse
As public and private schools in Jigawa State prepare to reopen on Monday for the new academic session, parents have voiced concerns over the rising cost of school materials, which they say is straining already stretched household finances.
The Jigawa State Ministry of Higher Education earlier confirmed the resumption date, assuring that schools were ready to welcome students back. But many parents interviewed in Dutse said the economic situation had made it increasingly difficult to provide basic educational needs for their children.
A mother of three, Hauwa Bello, lamented the financial pressure of buying new uniforms, books, and paying fees.
“Sending children back to school has become very difficult. Prices of everything have gone up, and it weighs heavily on our family budget,” she said.
Musa Aliyu, a father whose daughters attend a private secondary school, also highlighted the daily struggles faced by many families.
“With the current economic situation, meeting school expenses has added to the pressure of putting food on the table. The burden is real,” he said.
Parents with children in public schools shared similar concerns. Malam Usman Sani noted that even basic supplies like uniforms and exercise books were becoming difficult to afford.
“Even though it’s a public school, buying school materials still costs money. We pray things improve,” he said.
A widow, Fatima Yusuf, described the hardship as particularly severe for single parents.
“The cost of living has weakened my financial strength. Education expenses are now a major challenge,” she said.
Meanwhile, teachers across the state say they are prepared for resumption. Saudatu Yusuf, a teacher at Government Girls’ Secondary School, Dutse, said lesson notes had been prepared and materials put in place.
At Dundubus Primary School, however, Saminu Shehu appealed to the state government to address infrastructure challenges.
“Some of our classrooms are in poor condition. We’re ready for the resumption, but we also hope the government fixes these issues soon,” he said.
The concerns underscore the growing tension between families’ desire to educate their children and the economic realities confronting them as a new school year begins.
