The Kano State Accountability Forum on Education (K-SAFE) has commended the Executive Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, for approving ₦4.45 billion to cover examination fees for 150,000 students across the state.
The fund will cater for candidates sitting for the National Examinations Council (NECO), National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB), and National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS) examinations.
In a statement issued by its Co-Chair, Dr. Auwalu Halilu, K-SAFE described the approval as a bold and timely intervention that reflects the governor’s commitment to improving access to education and promoting equity across the state.
The group noted that the decision would ease the financial burden on thousands of families, particularly at a time of economic hardship, while ensuring that more students are able to complete their secondary and technical education without disruption.
According to the forum, the intervention is expected to boost student retention, improve transition rates, and enhance overall learning outcomes in schools across Kano.
K-SAFE further stated that the inclusion of NECO, NABTEB, and NBAIS candidates demonstrates a comprehensive approach to education that accommodates conventional, technical, and Islamic learning systems.
The forum added that the initiative aligns with broader national and global education goals aimed at ensuring inclusive and equitable access to learning opportunities.
While applauding the governor’s leadership, K-SAFE urged the state government to sustain investment in the education sector, including provision of teaching materials, improvement of school infrastructure, and continued support for teachers and inclusive education programmes.
The organisation reaffirmed its support for policies that promote human capital development and expand educational opportunities for young people in Kano State.