. *Decry Multiple Taxation*

By Chikaodi Chukwuleta

Private schools in Nnewi North LGA, Anambra State, Friday, celebrated the 2024 International Day of the African Child.

The event, in which about 30 schools participated, featured presentation of prizes to schools that took positions in the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) Nnewi North Interschool Quiz Competition, dance presentation, wrestling and display of Igbo culture, including a visit to the Nnewi Museum and other side attractions.

Addressing journalists after series of activities for the events, the Nnewi North Local Goverment Cordinator, NAPPS, Mr Ben Israel Orizu, said the global event was celebrated to help children uphold African culture, as well as instill in them the necessity of upholding and protecting the tradition of their motherland.

He noted multiple taxation as part of challenges school proprietors are facing in the area, saying that changes in government has continued to affect smooth running of their schools because of lack of established payment structure.

He urged government to try to extend some facilities to private schools since they help to achieve the purpose of education.

The  Financial Secretary of NAPPS, South East, Mr Paul Muoneke, urged government to also remember private schools when giving subventions and other incentives to schools and when posting students after Common Entrance Exams, saying that those whose parents can’t afford to train in private schools can still change schools.

He praised former Governor Peter Obi for providing some private schools laptops and subventions to build libraries, including renovations in most schools, adding that they will appreciate if Governor Chukwuma Soludo should do same.

Director of Nnewi Museum, Mr Caleb Okeke, who spoke on “Empowering African Children: Education, Equality and Opportunity”, encouraged children to embrace and always stand up for their rights in upholding African culture, and to eschew things that may look like opportunities, but can derail them from their path to greatness.

School children at the event, including Master Osita Nzubechukwu and Miss Kosisochukwu Nwolu; from Kentina Intentional School, and Master Izuchukwu Wisdom from Daniels Foundation School, who shared their experiences at the event, said it was enriching and should be a regular.