11,957 out-of-school children re-absorbed into schools in Lagos

By Oyebola Owolabi

The Lagos State government has re-absorbed about 12,000 out-of-school children into the school system through the Project Zero Program to access quality education, it was learnt yesterday.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, represented by Deputy Governor Obafmei Hamzat during the 2024 Children’s Day celebration at the Police College Ground yesterday, said his administration is committed to providing tools and develop skills set of pupils to excel in their academic endeavours.

The children’s day theme is ‘Advocate for Children Policies and Actions that Protect and Support Children’s Well-being’.

Governor Sanwo-Olu reassured the children that his government is for them and will continue to support any initiative that will advance their course.

He said: “Since 2019, we have been working hard to support you with many programs and initiatives aimed at protecting your rights and ensuring your happiness. We know how important early childhood education is for your future, and our goal is to make sure every child gets the chance to learn and grow.

“To help more children go to school, we have added nine new schools in busy and remote areas. These schools now have 4,588 pupils – 2,310 girls and 2,278 boys. We have also improved many existing schools, completing over 1,500 projects that include building, renovating, and providing new furniture.”

The governor also stressed that his government has added nine new schools and completed 1,500 classrooms to ensure learning environment is enhanced for proper learning outcomes.

According to him, 2,000 teachers have been recruited for 10 subjects while safety of pupils have been prioritised with fencing of all public schools and ongoing installation of CCTVs.

“We are committed to giving you tools to succeed. As a state, we are fully committed to providing skills and environment for you to succeed. I urge all our children to continue to dream by striving for goals. We would ensure no child is left behind,” the governor added.

Commissioner for Basic Education Jamiu Alli-Balogun lauded Governor Sanwo-Olu for investing in education and seeing children ‘as truly the future leaders that must be equipped with adequate skills to excel at all levels’.

Alli-Balogun enjoined the children to see themselves as the hope of a greater Lagos rising beyond any challenge.

He said “The administration of Governor Sanwo-Olu has invested enormously in your education by providing all that you need to meet your true potential. You are the future of our dear state and nation. Therefore, I implore you to continue to challenge yourself and excel both in academic and co-curricular activities.”

The commissioner, who described teachers in the state as nation-builders, acknowledged their effort and commitment towards mentoring the children, as well as their parents and guardians for being good role models.