Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State has authorised the immediate disbursement of N497 million for the payment of the 2023 WAEC test fees for students enrolled in the state’s public schools, as part of measures to further improve the state’s educational system.
The payment also fulfils the administration’s recent promise to offer free education in Kogi State’s public schools from primary to secondary school level, demonstrating the government’s steadfast dedication to putting the “Zero Out-of-School Policy” into effect.
A statement on Saturday, signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Muhammed Onogwu, said, “This resolute step reflects the administration’s dedication to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to access quality education, regardless of their socioeconomic status. It aims to empower students to undertake crucial examinations without imposing any financial burden on their parents or guardians.
“Furthermore, the Governor recently emphasised that his administration would penalise parents who fail to enrol their children in school under his leadership. This comprehensive approach to education underscores the state’s commitment to not only increasing access to education but also ensuring active participation.”
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With 1,867 students, Dekina has the largest number of beneficiaries among the schools that would directly benefit from this WAEC fees programme.
The next largest numbers of beneficiaries are 1,569 students in Lokoja Local Government Area and 1,345 students in Okene.This admirable project will help a significant 15,033 students overall, giving Kogi State’s children a better future in school.