Education Minister Reiterates That Payment of School Fees Not Mandatory

Minister of Education and Youth, Hon. Fayval Williams, is reminding schools that the payment of fees for student enrolment is not mandatory.

“Yes, we encourage our parents to contribute as they can. No student should be denied access to their fundamental human rights because they cannot pay the fee that some schools dictate for them to pay,” Mrs. Williams said.

She was speaking during Wednesday’s (September 4) post-Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House.

Mrs. Williams emphasised that no child should be barred from school for non-payment of fees.

“We understand that there are some fees for items that you have to purchase. But for the other part of it, the Government has clearly articulated that it is non-mandatory,” she said.

The Ministry has also committed to providing additional resources or differentiated funding, where necessary, once there is proper justification and documentation.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Williams informed that during the 2024/25 academic year, the Nutrition Policy as well as the Dress and Grooming Policy will be presented in their final form.