Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, has approved the sum of N600 million to cover WAEC fees for 18,734 students in the state’s public secondary schools.
This significant support, announced by the State Commissioner for Education, Hon. Wemi Jones, during a press briefing in Lokoja, underscores the government’s commitment to accessible education.
The commissioner explained that this initiative aligns with a state law mandating free examination fees for students in public schools. Under this law, the government assumes full responsibility for the cost of both internal and external exams for public school students.
Hon. Jones commended Governor Ododo for upholding and building on the educational initiatives established by his predecessor, former Governor Yahaya Bello, reinforcing a strong commitment to Kogi’s educational development.
“For the 2024/2025 WAEC, we approached the Governor in accordance with the existing law for his approval for the payment of student of WAEC for 18734 Students.
“With this development, the WAEC fees in public secondary schools in Kogi State has been paid for by the State Government.
“In 2024, the State Government paid for 15033 students. With this increase, we can imagine that more parents are now moving their Wards to public schools leading to an increase of 3,700 students.
”This policy by the Government is to make life easier for citizens, parents and guardians. This policy is also intended to address the syndrome of out of school children and to also ensure 100% completion of education at that level,” he said.
The commissioner thanked principals of schools that made the government’s intention easier last year but warned principals of severe sanctions if they violate the law.
