Students of Government College Ibadan have expressed unwavering confidence as they rounded up the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), asserting that months of rigorous tutorials and unrelenting academic drills have positioned them for success.
The Nigeria Education News visited the historic Government College, located in Apata, Ibadan, where the school’s serene yet industrious atmosphere told a story of focus and determination. Despite the term break the Senior Secondary School Three (SS3) students remained on campus, voluntarily participating in intensive revision sessions to further up their preparation for the almighty final year exams.
Established in 1929, Government College Ibadan is one of the oldest secondary schools in Nigeria. Recent infrastructural developments within the school compound reflect the Oyo State government’s commitment to revitalising public education. From freshly painted classroom blocks to newly roofed science laboratories, the physical transformation aligns with the academic rejuvenation seen among the students.
During our visit, groups of SS3 students were seen walking out of their classes, clad in their uniforms, with notebooks clutched under their arms. Their faces beamed with optimism. One of the students, Tobi Akinlolu, said, “We’ve had back-to-back tutorials in all subjects. The teachers really did a lot to ensure we understand everything. They made sure no one is left behind.”
Another student, Idris Ogunleye, who is among the school’s boarding population, revealed that he spent the last four weeks away from home to concentrate fully on his preparation. “I stayed back on my own. My parents supported it because they know what WAEC means. The tutorials are intense, but we coped. We want distinctions,” he said.
Fola Aluko, a day student, shared how the tutorial experience redefined his approach to studying. “Before, I used to cram and pray. But now, I understand the value of consistent reading. Our teachers break everything down, and we solved past questions every day,” he explained.
Despite the school being officially on holiday, the classrooms remain abuzz with lessons and exercises. The students attended sessions in Mathematics, English, Sciences, Arts, and Commercial subjects daily. According to Temitope Lawal, “Our teachers showed up even during the holidays. We resume by 9 a.m. and sometimes close by 3 p.m. It’s almost like we’re back in a normal term.”
When asked about the level of support from the school authorities, the students unanimously praised the efforts of their Teachers. “They did not just teach; they mentored us,” said Bolaji Kareem. “You can see it in how they talk to us, the way they go over topics again and again until we get it.”
Another student, Seyi Olanrewaju, appreciated the school environment, describing it as conducive and motivational. “They fixed the windows and fans in our class recently, and we now have enough chairs. Even the labs have been upgraded. It makes us feel like the government hasn’t forgotten us,” he noted.
In an attempt to get comments from the school’s leadership, our team sought a brief with the principal, but the Chief Security Officer informed us that the principal had just departed for an urgent meeting in the city. Nonetheless, the visible impact of leadership was evident in the structured learning still ongoing in the school.
The students also disclosed that beyond tutorials, they were coached on mental preparedness and examination strategies. “They told us how to manage time in the hall, avoid distractions, and stay calm,” said Kehinde Ajibade. “Those things matter too, and it shows they care about more than just the academics.”
