Nigerian Eye
Sowore Unveils Free Education Plan, Pledges to Scrap WAEC, NECO Fees
Human rights activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has unveiled his administration’s proposed education blueprint ahead of the 2027 general election, pledging free education at all levels, the abolition of public examination fees, and sweeping reforms across Nigeria’s education sector.Sharing the policy document on his verified X handle on Monday, Sowore declared that under his government, no child would pay for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WAEC), National Examination Council (NECO) exams, or any other public examination.“Education will be free because knowledge is a right, not a privilege,” Sowore stated, adding that his plan guarantees high-quality schooling from early childhood through university, supported by modern classrooms, digital learning, well-paid teachers, student grants, and equal opportunities for all.The 20-point manifesto outlines reforms in access, infrastructure, curriculum, technology, research, and student welfare. Key proposals include:Free education from nursery to universitySemester grants for tertiary studentsRestructured system: 5 years primary, 5 years secondary, 4 years universityCommunity colleges offering associate degrees and technical certificationsDigital learning with AI-assisted education, coding from primary school, robotics, and cybersecurity trainingPolytechnic reform: conversion of polytechnics and monotechnics into universitiesTeachers’ welfare: improved salaries, housing, and training opportunitiesUniversity autonomy and academic freedom free from political interferenceUniversity autonomy and academic freedom free from political interferenceStudent union protection and support for activismExpanded research funding in medicine, AI, renewable energy, biotechnology, and public healthSchool infrastructure upgrades including smart hostels, modern labs, and disability accessStudent welfare programmes such as school feeding, health services, menstrual hygiene support, and inclusive educationExtracurricular development with full funding for sports, arts, and cultureSowore described the plan as a “revolutionary commitment” to ensure no child’s future is determined by poverty, urging Nigerians to read, debate, and join the movement to make it a reality.The education sector has remained a central campaign issue in Nigeria, with stakeholders demanding increased funding, better teacher welfare, and alignment of curricula with technological and labour market needs ahead of the 2027 polls.
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