The Ekiti State Government has unveiled a major educational support initiative, approving sponsorship for 3,400 students to sit for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

With this latest batch, the total number of students who have benefited from the state’s free JAMB registration programme has surpassed 12,000 since Governor Biodun Oyebanji assumed office in October 2022.

In addition, the government has committed ₦600 million to settle West African Examinations Council (WAEC) fees for final-year students in public secondary schools across the state.

Expanding Access to Education

The intervention forms part of the administration’s ongoing efforts to eliminate financial barriers that often prevent students from advancing academically. By covering the costs of key national examinations, the government aims to ease the burden on families and promote wider participation in tertiary education.

Officials explained that the UTME sponsorship cuts across the 16 local government areas of Ekiti State, ensuring statewide inclusion. The initiative prioritizes academically capable students who may otherwise struggle to afford examination fees.

Strengthening Academic Performance

Beyond financial relief, the programme is designed to improve Ekiti’s performance in national examinations and increase the number of students progressing to universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.

The ₦600 million allocated for WAEC payments ensures that students in public schools can sit for their final secondary school examinations without interruption. Authorities believe that consistent government support will help raise overall academic standards within the state.

Focus on Human Capital Development

Education remains pivotal to the administration’s Human Capital Development strategy. By investing directly in examination sponsorship, the government seeks to build a stronger foundation for youth empowerment and long-term economic growth.

Beneficiaries have been encouraged to make the most of the opportunity by dedicating themselves fully to their studies and striving for excellent results in the forthcoming examinations.

The initiative underscores Ekiti State’s continued commitment to widening educational access and supporting students on their journey from secondary school to higher institutions.