*As principal, Chief Yakubu, promises to deepen academic excellence
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi state has assured the citizenry of his commitment to prioritise qualitative and affordable education aimed at making the state education hub in the country.
Governor Ododo gave the assurance on Tuesday when he visited GYB model Science Secondary School, Adankolo in Lokoja.
The Governor said that his administration will continue to give priority to effective education at all levels in the state, even as education sector is one of his thematic areas to consolidate the achievements of the immediate past government.
He said the purpose of his visit was to have a first hand assessment of how the students were faring.
Accompanied by some top Government Officials, the Governor arrived at the school unannounced and was received by the Principal of the school who conducted him round the classes in the college.
The Governor who was overwhelmed over the warm reception accorded him by both staff and students of the school, expressed the determination of his administration to continue to make education the number one priority of his administration.
His words, “By paying for your examinations, we are not doing you any favour. We are only doing what you elected us to do. All I ask of you is to be our good ambassadors and pass your examinations well enough to be able to pursue your dreams.
“When you get to the higher institutions of learning, you will also benefit from our bursaries and other scholarships. My parents were not rich and I knew what I went through to have education. As your Governor, I will make sure you do not go through that regardless of your social status.
“Our state is looking up to you to build a prosperous future and what we will get from you in the future depends on how we invest in your education. I will not fail you.
I remembered with regret how I couldn’t have the opportunity to have a handshake with a former Governor of the state, the late Prince Abubakar Audu when he visited secondary school. I considered you a very lucky students to have handshake with your governor” He said.
Governor Ododo assured the students that he will soon commence construction of hostels for the students and procurement of a bus for the school.
While commending the governor for the provision of infrastructures and recruitment of qualified teachers, the Principal of the school, Chief Yakubu Godwin, noted that the school has become a reference point across the state.
He assured the governor that with the quality of materials , laboratories, well stocked library and committed and dedicated Management and teachers, the school would come out top in the forthcoming e first external examinations to be written after the conversion of the school from Day College to GYB Model Science College.
Chief Yakubu therefore charged the students to put in their best to pass their Waec and Neco in flying colours as to whom much is given, much is expected of him.
Meanwhile, a representative of the students, Miss Zainab thanked the Governor for making it possible for children of the poor to have access to education.
She said, “Your Excellency sir, your payment of examination fees for students has enabled children of the poor to have access to education. You have demonstrated commitment to the plights of the poor in Kogi State.
“You are paying for all the internal and external examinations as well as making education free in all public schools. You are indeed a great leader”, she said.
