Kogi State Governor Sanctions ₦600 Million to Cover 2024/2025 WASSCE Fees for 18,734 Students in Public Schools
In a bid to make education more accessible and affordable for students in Kogi State, the government has released ₦600 million to cover the 2024/2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) fees for 18,734 students in public secondary schools. This move is in line with the ‘Free Examination Fee for Pupils in Public Schools’ law enacted by the state government in 2023.
Commissioner for Education, Wemi Jones, praised Governor Usman Ododo for continuing the vision set by his predecessor, Yahaya Bello. “We approached the governor for his approval to pay the WAEC fees for 18,734 students and he gave us a green light,” Jones explained.
This initiative has already shown positive results, with 15,033 students benefiting in 2024. The increase of 3,700 students indicates that more parents are now opting for public schools, which is a significant step towards reducing the number of out-of-school children.
The state government’s payment of WAEC fees in public secondary schools has been completed, with the commissioner assuring that the government will continue to support students’ educational journey by covering fees for JAMB, NABTEB, and the First School Leaving Certificate.
Jones also acknowledged the efforts of school principals in supporting this policy and warned those who might be considering malpractice of the strict penalties that will be imposed. In conclusion, the commissioner noted that the government’s goal is to make life easier for citizens, parents, and guardians, ultimately ensuring 100% completion of education at the secondary level.
