Mathew Amaechi
Lokoja, Nigeria – In a bold move to support education, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has approved the sum of ₦542 million for the payment of registration fees for students sitting for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and other internal examinations.
The approval, which underscores the state government’s commitment to improving access to quality education, will cover public school students across the state, ensuring financial constraints do not hinder their academic progress.
In a statement issued by the Kogi State government on Tuesday, Governor Ododo emphasized the administration’s determination to invest in youth empowerment through education.
“We believe that no child should be denied access to higher education due to financial limitations. This funding is part of our broader commitment to educational development and human capital investment in Kogi State,” the governor stated.The intervention is expected to cover UTME, Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), and other internal assessments for eligible students, providing much-needed relief to parents and guardians.
Education stakeholders have lauded the initiative, describing it as a game-changer that will boost student performance and encourage higher enrollment in tertiary institutions.This latest move aligns with Kogi State’s ongoing efforts to enhance learning conditions, including investments in school infrastructure, teacher training, and digital learning tools.
As the 2024 examination season approaches, beneficiaries of the scheme have expressed gratitude, with many describing the initiative as a lifeline for their academic aspirations.
The implementation of the ₦542 million educational support fund is expected to commence immediately, ensuring that no student is left behind in the pursuit of academic excellence.