Gov Ododo allocates over N1.2bn for public school exams

Omeiza Bilal

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has taken a significant step in supporting public education in Kogi State by releasing ₦661 million to cover the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) fees for SS3 students in public schools.

The announcement was made by the State Commissioner for Education, Hon. Wemi Jones, during a press briefing in Lokoja.

This funding initiative benefits 18,734 enrolled students and builds on the legacy of the previous administration, which enacted the Kogi State Free Examination and Registration Bill. The new measure reinforces the government’s commitment to shouldering the financial burden of both internal and external examination fees for students in public primary and secondary schools.

In addition to the WAEC funding, the state government has also approved ₦522 million for other critical examinations. This package includes ₦145,476,984 for the payment of Common Entrance and First School Leaving Certificate fees for primary school students, ₦215,220,000 for the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) covering 30,000 students, and ₦181,719,800 to facilitate JAMB form fees for 18,334 students.

Hon Jones emphasized that no student or pupil in public schools will incur any cost for these examinations, as the state has ensured that all associated expenses, including administrative charges and passport photographs, are fully covered. He warned school principals against including non-eligible names in the beneficiary lists, cautioning that such practices would jeopardize the scheme and disadvantage deserving students.

The substantial investment in education is designed to boost school enrollment, reduce dropouts, and ensure high school completion.

The Governor views this initiative as part of a broader strategy to alleviate the financial challenges faced by parents and address the issue of out-of-school children in the state.

Looking ahead, the state government has hinted at an imminent update regarding its position on the NECO examinations, further reinforcing its commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and ensuring that every student in Kogi State has access to quality, affordable education.