In a bold statement, Senator David Nakhid assured parents across Trinidad and Tobago that they are not required to pay any registration fees for government-assisted primary or secondary schools. This announcement follows numerous reports of parents being pressured to contribute financially to their children’s education, a situation that many families, especially those in lower to middle-income brackets, find difficult to manage.
Nakhid emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring all children have access to education without the burden of unfair fees. He recounted personal anecdotal experiences that illustrate how stringent financial conditions can be for families, urging schools to respect the established guidelines issued by the Ministry of Education. These guidelines, which reiterate that no fees should be levied upon parents for registration, are crucial in protecting the rights of students and their families.
The senator’s remarks are significant, coming amid growing concerns regarding educational funding in the country. His call for schools to refrain from asking for registration fees aims to alleviate the financial pressures many parents face. By openly challenging the practice, Nakhid encourages dialogue on how to better support education without penalizing parents financially, thus fostering a more inclusive educational environment.
