Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State has approved the immediate disbursement of N497 million for the payment of the 2023 WAEC examination fees for students enrolled in the state’s public schools.
The disbursement is also in realisation of the administration’s recent pledge to provide free education from primary to secondary school level within Kogi State’s public schools.
A statement on Saturday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Muhammed Onogwu, noted: “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, Governor Bello recently emphasised that his administration would penalise parents who fail to enroll their children in school.
“This comprehensive approach to education underscores the state’s commitment to not only increasing access to education but also ensuring active participation.”
Among the schools that will directly benefit from this WAEC fees initiative, Dekina has the highest number of students, with 1,867 beneficiaries.
It is followed by Lokoja Local Government Area, which has 1,569 students and Okene, 1,345 students.
In total, 15,033 WAEC students will benefit from the Kogi government’s payment.
