School heads and principals have been instructed to cease the imposition of compulsory school levy on parents, guardians and members of school communities either in cash or kind.

In a circular sent by the Permanent Secretary for Education, Heritage and Arts Alison Burchell on Monday, school heads were reminded that any form of compulsory levy is contrary to the ministry’s free education policy.

“The government has made access to quality education a reality through the free education initiative for Years 1 to 13, free text books and free fares for travelling students, so students have been able to attend school without burdening their families with financial worry,” the statement said.

“Schools that levy should cease with immediate effect and where parents or guardians have paid a levy under circumstances of duress, they must be refunded.”

However, the circular stated that parents and guardians can give contributions to the school on voluntary basis.

Edited by Naisa Koroi

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