SOME boarding schools are demanding top up fees for this term as they seek to cushion themselves against escalating prices of goods and services.

The schools say they were left with no other option after prices of basic commodities increased beyond what they had budgeted.

The development comes at a time when parents are struggling to pay fees with some schools resorting to payment plans.

Some parents were forced to withdraw their children from boarding schools as it became impossible for them to pay the exorbitant fees and buy uniforms, whose cost is also beyond the reach of many.

Primary and Secondary Education Deputy Minister Edgar Moyo, however, said schools were not allowed to charge top up fees unless they have been given the green light by the Ministry.

He said the reason why schools were running out of food was due to poor planning.

“Schools have not been given the leeway to increase fees without approval from the Government. If a school’s proposal to increase fees or charge top up has not been approved then the fees structure remains the same.

“When the proposal comes from the school, it has to be a joint proposal by the school authorities and the parents. These top ups being demanded by schools are a sign of poor planning. Schools must plan ahead to avoid burdening parents,” said Deputy Minister Moyo.