By Chinedu Adonu

In a landmark initiative to support education in the Enugu East Local Government Area, council chairman Hon. Pastor Beloved-Dan Anike has announced that his administration will cover the examination fees for all Senior Secondary School Three (SS3) students in public schools.

This decision, announced on Thursday, is expected to benefit over 2,400 students who will sit for the West African School Certificate Examination (WAEC), National Examination Council (NECO), and National Board for Technical Education (NABTEB) exams in the 2025 academic session starting in January.

The announcement was made during a meeting with principals of public secondary schools at the council headquarters in Nike.

Hon. Anike also revealed plans to cover Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exam fees for students when due. Additionally, his administration is arranging extra lessons for SS3 students to ensure they are well-prepared for their exams.

The principals had gathered to submit the names of eligible SS3 students, numbering over 2,400, as directed earlier.

Speaking to the press after the meeting, Hon. Anike emphasized that the initiative aligns with his administration’s human capital development plan, inspired by the vision of Enugu State Governor Dr. Peter Mbah.

“We know education is pivotal to lifting people out of poverty. Beyond certification, education equips individuals with skills to improve their lives. Our goal is to prepare future leaders to compete globally by investing in their human capital,” he stated.

Anike highlighted the council’s “Better Tomorrow Scholarship Scheme,” through which 50 exceptional students were placed in highly-rated schools to enhance their educational exposure and competitiveness.

The chairman stressed that the program is inclusive, benefiting both indigenous and non-indigenous students in public schools within the council area. He noted the focus on easing the financial burden on families, particularly the poor and middle class, while addressing social impacts.

Hon. Anike also commended Governor Mbah for his investments in education, including the establishment of “smart green schools” in all 260 wards of the state. He noted that these schools aim to bridge the gap between public and private education and reduce the financial strain on families.

“The smart green schools will be a game-changer, offering quality education that rivals private institutions. By September 2025, public schools will become the preferred choice for many, restoring the prestige they once had,” Anike said.

School principals expressed their joy and gratitude for the initiative.

Dr. Agada Gregory, Principal of Community Secondary School, Ugwogo Nike, said, “This project bridges the gap between the rich and the poor, ensuring more children stay in school. It’s a commendable move that other local government chairmen should emulate.”

Similarly, Mrs. Agbo of Annunciation Secondary School, Nkwo Nike, praised the chairman’s efforts, saying, “This initiative will give many students a chance to continue their education. Poverty has kept many out of school, but with this support, the sky is the limit.”

The principals collectively lauded Hon. Anike’s leadership and prayed for his continued success in transforming education in the local government area.