By Stephen Adeleye
The Nigeria’s Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, has lauded Kogi State Gov. Ahmed Usman Ododo, for his commitment to repositioning education in the state.
Alausa gave the commendation on Monday at the Inauguration of two newly constructed GYB Model Science Secondary Schools in Nagazi, Adavi; and in Okebukun, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Areas.
Alausa said the school was a testament to the governor’s visionary leadership and dedication to transforming education.
The minister praised the state’s initiatives, including free education policies, payment of exam fees, and establishment of three universities fully accreditated.
He also praised the state for allocating over 30 per cent annual budget to education surpassing the UNESCO recommendation of 26 per cent.
“Your Excellency, I commend your visionary leadership and commitment to repositioning education as a central pillar of development.
“Today’s event is my chance to witness a remarkable transformation – the GYB Model Science Secondary School, a flagship project that’s redefining the educational landscape.
“This isn’t just a school; it’s a symbol of hope, a deliberate investment in our young people’s future.
“I am impressed by the strategic establishment of GYB Mega Model Science Schools across the three senatorial districts, guaranteeing inclusivity, promoting equity, and expanding access to quality education.
“Kogi State is setting a shining example, and I’m honored to be part of this journey,” Alausa said.
He lauded the state’s efforts to promote equity and expand access to quality education.
Alausa also commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for implementing far-reaching reforms in the education sector particularly the student education loan fund (NELFund).
He noted that over One million students have benefitted from the loan worth of over N1.1 billion, adding that over 160,000 youths have been trained on digital skills.
Alausa emphasised that the federal government is focusing more attention on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education, technical and vocational training, and digitalisation.
He praised Ododo and other governors for complementing the federal government’s efforts towards education transformation in the country.
The minister urged students to seize opportunities, saying, “You have a country now that is giving you all the opportunities you need. The President will meet all his commitments to you”.
Earlier, the governor commended the minister and President Tinubu for their commitment to education sector reforms in the country, emphasising education as the foundation of societal progress.
“Today marks a defining step in securing Kogi State’s future through purposeful investment in education,” Ododo said,
He highlighted the school’s modern facilities, including 18 classrooms, science laboratories, and a 326-capacity Computer-Based Test centre.
Ododo acknowledged President Tinubu’s leadership, crediting his economic reforms for increased state revenue, enabling projects like the school.
The governor also praised his predecessor, former Gov. Yahaya Bello, for initiating the Mega Schools Initiative.
According to him, the school, accommodating over 1,700 students, aimed to promote quality education, uniform standards, and 21st-century skills.
Ododo reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to education transformation towards reducing the number of out-of-school children drastically in the state.
The governor urged students to seize opportunities, saying, “The future belongs to those who prepare for it with purpose”
The state’s Commissioner for Education, Mr Wemi Jones, praised the governor’s dedication to education and unwavering commitment to education transformation in the state.
Jones also commended the education minister for his impactful leadership, saying, “You stand out, you have been so engaging, impactful, and caring, and you care so much about the sub-nationals.”
The Ohinoyi of Ebira Land, HRM Dr. Ahmed Tijani-Anaje, praised Ododo’s administration for its commitment to improving education.
“Many schools were given a new life, and learning conditions were greatly improved,” the monarch said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the minister also Inaugurated the GYB model science secondary school at Okebukun in Kabba-Bunu.
(NAN)
