Rising End-of-Year Party Costs: Parents and Students Opt-Out Amid Inflation

The skyrocketing prices of goods and services have also impacted the fees for end-of-year school parties, leaving many parents and students reconsidering their participation. These events, traditionally designed to celebrate the achievements of students, staff, and school authorities, now face dwindling attendance as costs become prohibitive.

Typically, schools charge reasonable fees for these parties to cover expenses like gift items, food, drinks, and other necessities. These celebrations have been a cherished occasion where children and parents showcase new outfits, academic brilliance, and even financial prosperity.

However, this year, many families have had to skip these events due to economic pressures. With expenses piling up for Christmas festivities, school accessories, and the upcoming term’s fees, the burden of additional costs for these parties has become too much for many to bear.

Soaring Fees Turn Parents Away

An investigation revealed that many schools raised party fees by more than 50%, making it unaffordable for families with multiple children. For example, Mrs. Folakemi Ifaleke, a banker, expressed frustration about her children’s school increasing the fee from ₦5,000 to ₦15,000 per child. With three sons, the total cost would have been ₦45,000. “I told my boys to choose between Christmas clothes and the party,” she said. “They picked Christmas clothes and didn’t even mind skipping the party because most of their classmates also weren’t attending.”

Similarly, Mr. Jerry Nwokoma, a motor parts trader, faced a hefty bill of ₦90,000 for his four children. “When my wife informed me, I jokingly asked her to sell my head to raise the money,” he said. His children opted out of the party, and he promised them a family outing instead.

Schools Respond with Cost-Cutting Measures

While some schools struggled with low attendance, others adapted by reducing party costs. Mrs. Chisom Akpota, a teacher, shared that her school lowered the fee from ₦5,000 to ₦3,000. “Even with the reduced fee, only 20 out of 70 pupils paid,” she noted. The school organized a simple celebration with snacks, drinks, and awards for best-performing pupils during the morning assembly. “The children sang, danced, and were happy with what we provided.”

In contrast, some schools canceled their parties altogether due to poor turnout.

Balancing Costs and Expectations

Mrs. Omosefunmi Grace, a school proprietress, explained the dilemma schools face. “Things are expensive in the market. If we charge the same fee as last year, parents complain about the quality of the event. If we increase the fee, parents complain about affordability.” Despite the struggles, her school held its party with limited participation.

This growing trend highlights the financial challenges families and schools face during these economically strained times. Parents are prioritizing essentials, while schools are left balancing rising costs with parental expectations.

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