The Ondo State Ministry of Education, Science and Technology has denied authorising an alleged blood-testing exercise at CAC Adu Memorial Grammar School, Oke-Aro, Akure.

The ministry said it neither approved nor directed the exercise, stressing that no school principal had the authority to organise such an exercise or impose related charges on students without approval from the appropriate authorities.

The ministry made the clarification in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Bisi Lawani, on Tuesday.

It expressed particular concern over reports that students were required to pay N8,000 for the blood test, stating that the government had not approved any policy requiring students in public schools to pay such an amount.

According to the ministry, any collection made in connection with the exercise, if established, was undertaken without its authorisation.

The ministry also said it had been informed of the reported involvement of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), which was expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged incident and establish the facts.

It directed school principals and administrators to comply fully with approved government policies, regulations and directives.

The ministry warned against unauthorised financial charges and activities capable of undermining public confidence in the state’s education system.

It urged parents, guardians, students and members of the public to report suspected unauthorised collections or other irregularities in public schools to the appropriate authorities.

The ministry said disciplinary and legal measures would be taken against any officer found culpable after investigation.

It reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to protecting students’ welfare, promoting transparency and accountability in public schools, and maintaining the integrity of the education system.