In line with the Lagos State government’s commitment to quality and functional education across the State, Governor Akinwuni Ambode on Tuesday commissioned a newly constructed block of 20 classrooms at the Anglican Primary School in Isawo and the Girls Junior Model College, Agunfoye in Igbogbo both in Ikorodu.
Speaking at the Commissioning, the Governor stated that the present administration has continued to give top priority to education and invest heavily in the sector because of the need to make quality education available and accessible to every child of school age living in Lagos State.
Ambode, who was represented at the two events by the State Deputy Governor, Dr. Oluranti Adebule noted that government investment in the future of the children through strategic reforms and planning in the education sector is aimed at optimising the potentials of children in Lagos.
“We have invested in the future of our children through strategic reforms and planning in the education sector to ensure that the potentials of our children are fully developed and optimized so that they can compete favourably with their peers globally”, Ambode stated.
While welcoming pupils and students back to their schools after the break, the Governor stated that various rehabilitation and construction of new blocks of classrooms embarked upon by the present administration is geared towards providing the conducive atmosphere for teaching and learning in all public schools.
He assured that the projects would continue until the government is fully satisfied that all schools have become centres of academic excellence in line with the vision of the founding fathers of the State.
According to him, “This process will continue until we are satisfied that our schools have become centers of academic excellence comparable to those in other model-city states across the world. This commitment was aptly demonstrated in our 2018 appropriation Bill which has been christened (Budget of Progress and Development)”.
Ambode informed that the present administration would continue to invest in capacity development of public schools’ personnel, adding that the duty of ensuring the protection and maintenance of public infrastructure in the State is a shared responsibility between the government and all stakeholders.
He, therefore, called on teachers, various community leaders, traditional rulers and members of various Community Development Associations (CDAs), Community Development Councils (CDCs) and others to help government guide, protect and ensure that the two new schools are put to good use.
Earlier in her address, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Mrs Adebunmi Adekanye commend the Governor’s passion and commitment to the provision of qualitative education, saying that the facilities and environment of the school are very conducive for the acquisition of knowledge.
She said, “I am confident that, anyone who feels for the masses would realize the need to provide a level playing ground for all children to pursue their dreams without being encumbered by their places and circumstances of birth and will be proud to associate with this new school”.
The event was attended by senior civil servants in the education sector, traditional rulers and community leaders among others.