The Lagos State Government says it has enrolled 11,957 out-of-school children through its Project Zero Programme.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu disclosed this on Monday at the Children’s Day celebration parade and rally held at Police College, Ikeja.
Represented by his Deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, he highlighted some initiatives put in place for children to go to school, noting that nine new schools were added to those busy and remote areas, and they presently have 4,588 students – 2,310 girls and 2,278 boys.
He added, “We have also improved many existing schools, completing over 1,500 projects that include building, renovating, and providing new furniture.”
The governor noted that school safety was also very important and had prioritised security in all public schools.
According to him, public schools are now secured with fences, CCTV cameras, and other safety measures, noting that it was working closely with security agencies to keep students safe.
“For our older students, we have hired over 2,000 new teachers in subjects like STEM, History, Yoruba, French, and Geography since May 2023,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu disclosed that the new Digital Situation Room had also been put in place to keep track of how well schools were doing and to ensure everything ran smoothly.
He stated, “Furthermore, we have partnered with companies like Nigerdock, Port and Terminal Multi-Services Limited (PTML) which have generously donated classrooms and other resources to our schools. These partnerships help us ensure you get the best education possible.”
The governor urged children to continue to dream big, strive for goals and surpass imagination, assuring them that his administration would continue to advocate the mantra, ‘No Child Is Left Behind’.
He stressed that the state government was fully committed to providing children with a conducive environment, skills, opportunities and security to achieve their dreams.
“We are also helping you develop skills for the future, providing paths to success based on what you’re good at.
“Our work is ongoing, and we are committed to giving you the tools and knowledge you need to succeed,” Sanwo-Olu added.
He explained that the yearly celebration was about reaffirming the government’s responsibilities to children by preparing them for the challenges ahead in the ever-changing and increasingly competitive world.
He stressed that the 2024 theme: “Advocate for Children: Policies & Actions that Protect and Support Children’s Well-being”, encouraged all to speak up, take action, and always stay safe, happy and thriving.
The Commissioner, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mr Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, on his part, implored children to sustain excellence in their academic and co-curricular activities, describing them as the future of the state and nation.
While applauding the Sanwo-Olu-led administration for its commitment to the education sector, he acknowledged the role of teachers in mentoring the children.
According to him, the governor had invested enormously in the education sector by providing all that the children need.
He said, “The entire education family of Lagos State appreciate you for your passion and investment in the future of all the children of Lagos State.
“Especially, your efforts at ensuring a level playing ground for all to nurture and grow their knowledge in pursuit of a better tomorrow.
“It is imperative to note that your immense support for the education sector and the mileage covered are legendary. Thank you for being a father and we appreciate all you do for us as a sector.”
Alli-Balogun urged the children to rise to their true potential and effectively use all that had been provided to their advantage.
“We equally acknowledge the role of our teachers in mentoring these children, you are indeed nation builders and we salute your commitment, diligence and dedication,” he added.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the highlight of the Children’s Day celebration was the symbolic registration of nursery and primary one pupils to public schools administered by the deputy governor.