In order to mitigate the effects of the termination of the subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit, also known as petrol, Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas on Friday declared free education in all elementary and secondary institutions beginning with the following academic session.
The decision was made just 48 hours after it was announced that university tuition would be reduced by 50% to ease the country’s present financial difficulties.
He stated that Taraba State’s elementary and secondary education would be free as of the upcoming academic year.
According to a statement released by his spokesperson, Emmanuel Bello, Kefas made the announcement while on an evaluation tour to the Ebenezer Primary School in Wukari.
The governor emphasised that the costs should be covered by the government and that there should be no fees for students.
He stated that, in addition to honouring a campaign pledge, the suffering caused by the elimination of the fuel subsidy made the decision necessary.
During a visit to Taraba State University in Jalingo on Wednesday, Kefas announced the abolition of school fees, stating that great education was his top priority.
Kefas stated that he has since declared a state of emergency in the education sector and was also dedicated to free elementary and secondary school education.
Many University students expressed their delight at the news, noting that the fee cut will substantially improve their lives.
“Some parents said the hardship occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidy has made payments of school fees difficult. They said the slash has raised their hopes,” Bello had said.
