The Kogi State Government has announced its intentions to legalize the payment of both external and internal examination fees for students in the state’s public schools. Wemi Jones, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, unveiled this groundbreaking policy during a meeting of the National Executive Committee of North Central of All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS) in Lokoja.
This pioneering move comes on the heels of the Kogi Government’s declaration of free education for students from primary to secondary school in November 2023. Jones emphasized that the impending legislation, once passed and assented, will solidify the state’s commitment to financing examination fees for its students, marking a monumental shift in educational accessibility and affordability.
In his address, Jones expressed gratitude to ANCOPSS for their collaborative efforts in advancing the state government’s educational agendas, aimed at delivering top-tier education to the people of Kogi. He attributed the sector’s successes to the unwavering dedication of Governor Yahaya Bello, lauding him as a beacon heralding an educational renaissance in Kogi.
Underscoring education as a pivotal driver of societal progress, the commissioner underscored the government’s objective of nurturing globally competitive students across all disciplines. He highlighted the establishment of Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH) in Osara and Kogi State University (KSU) in Kabba as pivotal institutions designed to cultivate prowess in science and technology while providing expanded opportunities for tertiary education for Kogi students.
Jones delineated the government’s strategic focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education, aligning with the state’s rich reservoir of natural resources. Emphasizing the significance of the GYB Model Science Secondary Schools scattered throughout the state, he underscored their role in preparing students to confront future challenges.
Christopher Ogiri, the North Central Chairman of ANCOPSS, lauded the Kogi Government for its remarkable educational strides, particularly in secondary and tertiary institutions. As an advisory body, Ogiri pledged ANCOPSS’s steadfast commitment to guiding the government in optimizing secondary education, serving as a vital link between primary and tertiary education.
Suberu Omanayi, the state President of ANCOPSS, extolled the government for its outstanding achievements in education. Omanayi commended Commissioner Jones for his resolute determination and dedication in rejuvenating and reinstating the eminence of education in the state.
The stage is set for a transformational era in education within Kogi State as the government’s visionary initiatives pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive educational landscape.
