A recent policy in Kogi State requiring students to present their parents’ Tax Clearance Certificates (TCC) for admission to tertiary institutions has ignited a heated debate, with critics arguing that it could unfairly deny indigent students access to education.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Naija247news gathered that the policy, implemented by the Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (KGIRS), aims to encourage tax compliance among residents. However, many see it as an undue burden on families, particularly those living below the poverty line.
According to Naija247news, the KGIRS has defended the policy, stating that it is a necessary step to ensure that citizens contribute to the development of the state. They argue that access to public services, including education, should be linked to tax obligations.
Naija247news reports that education stakeholders, including civil society organizations and student unions, have strongly condemned the policy. They argue that it violates the fundamental right to education, which should be accessible to all citizens regardless of their parents’ financial status.
The controversy has sparked a public outcry, with many residents expressing concerns about the potential impact on their children’s education. The debate has also raised questions about the government’s approach to tax collection and its commitment to social equity.
As the debate intensifies, it remains to be seen whether the Kogi State government will reconsider the policy or implement measures to mitigate its impact on vulnerable families.
