The Lagos State government has announced a cumulative payment of N4.2 billion as West Africa Examination Council (WAEC) fees for students over the past four years.
This revelation came during the ministerial session of the 67th National Council on Education (NCE) meeting, themed “Addressing the Challenges of Policy Implementation: A Panacea for the Achievement of Education 2030 Agenda,” held in Ikeja on Thursday.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Commissioner for Primary and Basic Education, Jamiu Alli-Balogun, emphasized the government’s commitment to covering WAEC fees for all public school students in SS3.
This policy, initiated in 2000 during the tenure of President Bola Tinubu as Lagos State Governor, has evolved into an annual financial commitment exceeding N1 billion.
Speaking at the event, Sanwo-Olu highlighted the government’s dedication to ensuring easy access to education for all, regardless of gender or capability.
Free education at the primary and secondary levels, mandated by the Lagos Compulsory Free Universal Basic Education Law of 2005, has contributed to increased enrollment and the establishment of new schools, particularly in rural areas.
The governor revealed that, between January and November, six secondary schools were established, and 21 adult literacy centers were added.
Additionally, two new universities, the Lagos State University of Education and the Lagos State University of Technology, were approved to expand educational choices for the youth.
Under the Project Zero Programme, the government successfully reintegrated 11,957 out-of-school children, providing them with uniforms.
Sanwo-Olu emphasized the importance of education in a nation’s socio-economic development and urged the National Council on Education to formulate effective strategies for policy implementation.
As part of its commitment to modernize education, the Lagos State government has invested in digital devices to integrate technology seamlessly into the learning process.
Over 1,449 projects, covering 1,036 schools across all 20 LGAs and 37 LCDAs, have been inaugurated to improve teaching and learning environments.
These projects include construction, renovation, and the supply of composite units of furniture, marking a substantial stride towards elevating the educational system to international standards.
