The Ondo State Ministry of Education, Science and Technology has approved new cut-off marks for admission into public junior secondary schools, setting a uniform benchmark for the 2026/2027 academic session.

The decision follows the recently concluded state-wide admission assessment, in which pupils were examined and scored over a total of 300 marks. According to the ministry, the cut-off marks were derived strictly from candidates’ performance in the test, reinforcing the government’s emphasis on merit.

In a statement signed by the ministry’s Press Officer, Bisi Lawani, officials explained that the assessment remains a compulsory gateway for all pupils seeking placement in public junior secondary schools across Ondo State. The exercise, the ministry noted, is intended to ensure that only candidates who demonstrate adequate academic readiness are offered admission.

Chairing the meeting where the cut-off marks were ratified, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof Igbekele Ajibefun, praised the conduct of the examination and the speed with which the results were processed. He described the exercise as smooth and largely hitch-free, adding that the prompt release of scores reflected the ministry’s drive for efficiency and credibility in managing school admissions.

Ajibefun stressed that the new cut-off regime is part of broader reforms aimed at strengthening standards in public schools and restoring public confidence in the placement process. He reiterated that the ministry would not compromise on transparency or fairness.

The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr Akindele Ige, said the policy was carefully designed to promote a merit-based system that rewards hard work. He explained that by tying admission strictly to performance in the assessment, the state hopes to guarantee that qualified pupils gain access to quality secondary education, regardless of background.

Following the approval of the cut-off marks, principals of public secondary schools have been directed to begin admitting candidates who meet or surpass the prescribed thresholds. Zonal and Area Education Offices have also been mandated to supervise and coordinate the process in their respective local government areas to ensure uniform compliance.

Parents and guardians have been advised to seek accurate information on the admission procedures from designated Education Offices or their children’s primary schools. The ministry urged all stakeholders to adhere strictly to the official guidelines to avoid misinformation and irregularities during the admission exercise.