The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Wednesday, unveiled new blocks of classrooms at Keme Balogun Senior and Junior Colleges in Ibeshe, Ikorodu, Lagos, to herald the launching of other blocks of classrooms across the state.
The newly constructed and rehabilitated classrooms include those at Awori Junior College, Ojo; Euba Junior High School, Mushin; Ipara Junior College, Majiyagbe; Mainland Junior Secondary School, Fadeyi; St. Luke Junior Secondary School, Bariga; State Junior High School, Ibereko, Badagry, and Thogli Community Grammar School, also in Badagry.
The governor, who had earlier conducted a drive through inspection of the ultra-modern block of classrooms at Ajegunle Junior High School in Kosofe Local Government Area, said, ‘’Education is the cornerstone of our THEMES plus agenda. It is the engine that drives economic growth, reduces inequality and empowers individuals to break the circle of poverty.”
The governor said by investment in schools translated to investment in the socioeconomic fibre of the various communities.
“These newly renovated and constructed facilities will serve as a catalyst for change, providing our children with the tools they need to compete in an increasingly globalised world. The construction of a block of 18 classrooms, the renovation of existing structures, and the addition of modern facilities like the food canteen, Intro-tech block, and sports fields will create an environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and physically.”
He said the school projects also created jobs during the construction phase, providing livelihoods for local workers and stimulating the local economy.
“Moving forward, the improved infrastructure will enhance the quality of education, and increase enrollment rates. This, in turn, will lead to a more educated and skilled workforce, capable of driving innovation and economic development in our state.
“Moreover, the emphasis on technical education through the new Intro-tech block is particularly significant.
The Chairman, Special Committee on Repair of Public Schools, Hakeem Smith, while giving overview of the construction of the school, said the deplorable condition of the school was brought to the attention of the governor, who immediately ordered repair work to be carried out.
In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Tolani Alli-Balogun, said the simultaneous inauguration of new 16 blocks of classrooms across the state was a demonstration of the governor’s commitment to providing “top-notch education to Lagosians.”
