By Hadiza Musa Yusuf
The Kano State Accountability Forum on Education (K-SAFE) has commended the Kano State Government for approving ₦4.45 billion to cover examination fees for 150,000 students sitting for NECO, NABTEB, and NBAIS examinations across the state.
In a sstatement on Tuesday signed by its Co-Chair, Dr. Auwalu Halilu, the group described the decision as remarkable and timely.
According to K-SAFE, the approval shows that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf is committed to improving access to education and reducing the burden on families.
“This bold and people-centered decision demonstrates Your Excellency’s unwavering commitment to improving access to education, promoting equity, and supporting the academic aspirations of young people in Kano State,” the statement read.
The group noted that by paying examination fees, the government has removed a major financial challenge facing many households.
“By removing the financial burden of examination fees from thousands of families, the Kano State Government has not only safeguarded the future of these students but has also strengthened public confidence in the government’s dedication to educational development and social inclusion,” it added.
K-SAFE said the intervention is coming at a difficult time for many families facing economic hardship, warning that inability to pay exam fees often leads to school dropouts or delayed education.
“Your Excellency’s intervention comes at a critical time when many households are facing economic challenges, and the inability to pay examination fees often results in school dropouts, delayed progression, or loss of educational opportunities,” the group said.
It added that the initiative would help improve student retention and academic performance across secondary and technical schools in the state.
“This strategic investment in education will significantly enhance student retention, improve transition rates, and contribute to better learning outcomes across secondary and technical education institutions in Kano State,” it stated.
The forum also praised the inclusive nature of the policy, noting that it covers different education systems.
“The decision to support candidates for NECO, NABTEB, and NBAIS examinations reflects a comprehensive and inclusive approach to education that recognizes the diverse learning pathways of students, including those in conventional, technical, and Islamic education systems,” the statement said.
K-SAFE added that the policy aligns with broader national and global education goals aimed at ensuring that no child is left behind due to financial constraints.
It further commended the governor on behalf of stakeholders, parents, and civil society groups across the state.
“On behalf of civil society organizations, education stakeholders, parents, and communities across Kano State, K-SAFE commends Your Excellency for this visionary leadership and for prioritizing investments that directly impact the lives and futures of young people,” it said.
The group described the intervention as a clear testament to the administration’s focus on human capital development and youth empowerment.
“This initiative stands as a clear testament to your administration’s commitment to human capital development, educational access, and the empowerment of the next generation,” it stated.
K-SAFE also urged the government to sustain such interventions and expand support to other areas of education, including infrastructure, teaching materials, and teacher development.
“We respectfully encourage the continuation of such transformative policies and sustained investment in education, including support for teaching and learning materials, school infrastructure, teacher development, and inclusive education programmes that will further strengthen the education sector in Kano State,” the group added.
The statement concluded by thanking the governor for what it described as a historic intervention in the education sector.
“Once again, we say thank you, Your Excellency, for this historic intervention and for your steadfast dedication to building a brighter future for the children and youth of Kano State,” it said.