The Kwara State Government has reiterated its unwavering dedication to transforming the education sector by channeling significant resources into teaching, learning, and infrastructure development. This commitment, aimed at ensuring that every child in the state has access to high-quality education, reflects a broader vision of fostering academic excellence and equipping young minds with the tools needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Dr. Lawal Olorungbebe, the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, emphasized that the state’s focus on education is not only a priority but a cornerstone of its developmental agenda. By investing in teacher training, providing essential resources, and upgrading educational facilities, the government seeks to create an environment where students can excel and contribute meaningfully to society.
Dr. Olorungbebe’s remarks came as part of a broader discussion on the state’s educational achievements, particularly in light of the recently released results of the 2025 placement examination. The commissioner highlighted the notable strides made in both student participation and academic performance, underscoring the tangible impact of the government’s policies and investments. According to him, the 2025 placement examination saw a 3.09% increase in participation, with 63,950 students taking part compared to 62,031 in 2024. This uptick in participation is a clear indicator of growing public confidence in Kwara State’s education system, particularly in its public schools. The increase reflects the success of ongoing efforts to make education more accessible and appealing to families across the state, signaling a shift in perception about the quality and reliability of public education.
Beyond participation, the 2025 placement examination results revealed a significant leap in academic performance, further solidifying the state’s progress in raising educational standards. The overall pass rate for the examination soared to an impressive 83.21% in 2025, a marked improvement from 73.98% in 2024 and a substantial leap from 66.99% in 2019. This achievement represents the strongest performance in recent years, highlighting the effectiveness of the state’s strategic interventions in the education sector. The consistent upward trajectory in pass rates over the past few years underscores the government’s commitment to fostering a culture of academic excellence and ensuring that students are well-prepared for the next stages of their educational journey.
Breaking down the results by subject, Dr. Olorungbebe provided detailed insights into the performance across key areas of the curriculum. In Mathematics, students achieved a pass rate of 72.86% in 2025, a notable improvement from 67.00% in 2024. This upward trend in Mathematics performance is particularly significant, as the subject is often considered a critical indicator of analytical and problem-solving skills. Similarly, in English, the pass rate rose to 74.61% in 2025, up from 73.00% in 2024. The improvement in English performance reflects the state’s efforts to enhance literacy and communication skills, which are foundational to success in other academic disciplines and in life beyond the classroom. General Studies saw the most substantial gain, with a pass rate of 85.30% in 2025, compared to 78.00% in 2024. This remarkable achievement in General Studies highlights the students’ growing proficiency in interdisciplinary knowledge and critical thinking, areas that are essential for holistic development.
The commissioner attributed these impressive results to the visionary leadership of Governor Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, whose administration has made education a top priority. Governor AbdulRazaq’s substantial investments in the education sector have been instrumental in driving these positive outcomes. Over the past few years, the state government has allocated significant portions of its budget to education, focusing on areas such as infrastructure development, teacher recruitment and training, and the provision of modern teaching aids. These investments have created a more conducive learning environment, empowered educators, and provided students with the resources they need to succeed. From the renovation of dilapidated school buildings to the provision of digital learning tools, the government’s efforts have transformed the educational landscape in Kwara State, making it a model for other states to emulate.
One of the key pillars of the state’s educational strategy has been its focus on teacher training and professional development. Recognizing that teachers are the backbone of any successful education system, the Kwara State Government has implemented a range of programs aimed at enhancing the skills and capacity of educators. These programs include workshops, seminars, and specialized training sessions designed to equip teachers with modern pedagogical techniques and subject-specific expertise. By investing in teachers, the government has ensured that classrooms are led by competent and motivated professionals who are capable of inspiring and guiding students to achieve their full potential. Dr. Olorungbebe noted that the improved performance in the 2025 placement examination is a testament to the hard work and dedication of teachers who have embraced these training opportunities and applied their new skills in the classroom.
In addition to teacher training, the government has made significant strides in improving school infrastructure. Many schools in Kwara State have undergone extensive renovations, with new classrooms, libraries, and laboratories being constructed to create a more conducive learning environment. These upgrades have not only improved the physical condition of schools but also boosted student morale and engagement. Modern facilities, such as science laboratories equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and libraries stocked with relevant books and digital resources, have enabled students to explore their interests and develop a deeper understanding of their subjects. The provision of these resources has been particularly impactful in rural areas, where access to quality education has historically been limited.
The government’s efforts have also extended to ensuring equitable access to education for all children, regardless of their socio-economic background. By implementing policies that reduce barriers to education, such as providing free textbooks, uniforms, and other learning materials, the state has made it easier for families to send their children to school. This focus on inclusivity has contributed to the increased participation rates seen in the 2025 placement examination and has helped bridge the gap between urban and rural schools. The government’s commitment to leaving no child behind is evident in its efforts to address issues such as poverty, gender disparities, and geographic isolation, all of which can hinder access to education.
Dr. Olorungbebe also took the opportunity to commend the collective efforts of various stakeholders in the education sector, including teachers, school leaders, parents, and students. He emphasized that the achievements recorded in the 2025 placement examination were the result of a collaborative effort, with each group playing a critical role in sustaining the positive trends. Teachers have worked tirelessly to deliver quality instruction, school leaders have provided effective oversight and management, parents have supported their children’s education, and students have shown dedication and resilience in their studies. This synergy among stakeholders has created a virtuous cycle of improvement, where each success builds on the previous one, driving the education system toward greater heights.
The commissioner also highlighted the importance of parental involvement in the educational process. He noted that parents who actively engage with their children’s education, by monitoring their progress, providing encouragement, and collaborating with teachers, play a vital role in ensuring academic success. The state government has actively encouraged parental involvement through initiatives such as parent-teacher associations and community outreach programs. These efforts have fostered a sense of shared responsibility for education and have helped create a supportive ecosystem for students.
Looking ahead, the Kwara State Government has outlined ambitious plans to further strengthen the education sector. These plans include expanding access to digital learning platforms, introducing new vocational and technical education programs, and continuing to invest in teacher development. The government is also exploring partnerships with private organizations and international development agencies to bring additional resources and expertise to the state’s education system. By leveraging technology and innovation, the government aims to prepare students for the demands of the 21st-century economy, equipping them with skills in areas such as information technology, entrepreneurship, and critical thinking.
The success of the 2025 placement examination is a milestone in Kwara State’s journey toward educational excellence, but it is also a reminder of the work that remains to be done. While the improvements in participation and performance are commendable, the government recognizes that there are still challenges to overcome. Issues such as teacher shortages in certain subjects, inadequate infrastructure in some remote areas, and the need for more inclusive education for children with special needs require ongoing attention. The state is committed to addressing these challenges through targeted interventions and sustained investment.
In conclusion, the Kwara State Government’s steadfast commitment to education has yielded significant results, as evidenced by the impressive outcomes of the 2025 placement examination. By prioritizing teacher training, infrastructure development, and equitable access to education, the state has created a strong foundation for academic success. The increased participation and improved pass rates reflect the effectiveness of these efforts and the collaborative spirit of all stakeholders involved. Under the leadership of Governor Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Kwara State is poised to continue its upward trajectory in education, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to receive a quality education and build a brighter future. As the state moves forward, its focus on innovation, inclusivity, and excellence will undoubtedly serve as a model for other regions seeking to transform their education systems.
