Nigerian Governor Declares Free Primary and Secondary Education, Gives Reason
Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has declared primary and secondary education free and compulsory in the state, starting from the next academic session. The governor said the move is to cushion the effects of the removal of subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit, also known as petrol.
Governor Kefas made the announcement on Friday during an unscheduled visit to Ebenezer Primary School in Wukari, where he interacted with the pupils and teachers. He said the government would bear the cost of education and no fees should be charged to students.
He also reiterated his commitment to honouring his campaign promise of making education his top priority. He said he had declared a state of emergency in education and was determined to improve the quality and access of education in the state.
The governor had earlier announced a 50% reduction in tuition fees for students of Taraba State University in Jalingo on Wednesday. He said the decision was also aimed at alleviating the hardship caused by the fuel subsidy removal.
The governor’s actions have been widely applauded by students, parents, teachers and other stakeholders in the education sector. They said the governor had shown compassion and vision in addressing the challenges facing education in the state.
