By Ojotule Romanus
Nigeria’s Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, has inaugurated two model science secondary schools in Kogi State, praising Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, for his administration’s commitment to advancing education.
The newly inaugurated GYB Model Science Secondary Schools are located in Nagazi, Adavi Local Government Area, and Okebukun in Kabba-Bunu LGA.
Speaking at the event, Alausa described the projects as a reflection of visionary leadership and a strategic investment in the future of young people.
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“Your Excellency, I commend your visionary leadership and commitment to repositioning education as a central pillar of development. This project is not just a school, but a symbol of hope and a deliberate investment in the future of our young people,” the minister said.
Alausa also highlighted key education reforms by the Kogi State Government, including the implementation of free education, payment of external examination fees, and the establishment of three fully accredited universities. He noted that the state allocates over 30 per cent of its annual budget to education, exceeding the UNESCO recommended benchmark of 26 per cent.
The minister further commended President Bola Tinubu, for ongoing reforms in the education sector, particularly the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, which he said has benefited over one million students with loans exceeding N1.1 billion. He added that more than 160,000 youths have also been trained in digital skills nationwide.
According to him, the Federal Government is prioritising science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education, alongside technical and vocational training and digitalisation.
In his remarks, Governor Ododo described the inauguration as a milestone in the state’s education development drive.
“Today marks a defining step in securing Kogi’s future through purposeful investment in education,” the governor said.
He disclosed that the schools are equipped with modern facilities, including 18 classrooms, science laboratories, and a 326-capacity computer-based test centre. The institutions are designed to accommodate over 1,700 students and promote the acquisition of 21st-century skills.
Ododo also acknowledged the role of his predecessor, Yahaya Bello, for initiating the Mega Schools Initiative, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to reducing the number of out-of-school children in the state.
“The future belongs to those who prepare for it with purpose,” he added.
