In a move that underscores his administration's unwavering dedication to enhancing the quality of education in Lagos State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu recently inaugurated a series of ultra-modern classroom blocks and facilities in several schools across the state. This initiative, spearheaded by the Special Committee on Rehabilitation of Public Schools (SCRPS), marks a significant step towards providing students with a conducive learning environment equipped with state-of-the-art resources.

The inauguration ceremony, which drew large crowds of residents and students, saw the commissioning of new facilities at Keme Balogun Junior/Senior College, Ibeshe, Ikorodu, including a mini football pitch and a multi-purpose sports court. Similar projects were also inaugurated at Ajegunle Junior High School, Owode-Onirin in Kosofe, and Odogunyan Junior Grammar School in Ikorodu. These inaugurations represent the opening of 16 ultra-modern blocks of classrooms across the six education districts, facilitated by SCRPS.

Other schools benefiting from this initiative include 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.

Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized his administration's commitment to providing first-class infrastructure and well-educated teachers to the students of Lagos State. He urged parents to actively engage with their children, ensuring they receive a well-rounded upbringing. "These ambitious events consolidate our commitment to the development and pursuit of educational excellence and socio-economic development in Lagos," said the Governor. He highlighted education as the cornerstone of the THEMES+ development agenda, driving economic growth, reducing inequality, and empowering individuals.

The newly renovated and constructed facilities include blocks of classrooms, renovated existing structures, food canteens, Intro-Tech blocks, and sports fields. These improvements aim to create an environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and physically. Moreover, the projects have generated employment opportunities during their construction phase, stimulating the local economy. The improved infrastructure is expected to enhance the quality of education and increase enrollment rates, leading to a more educated and skilled workforce.

Mr. Hakeem Smith, Chairman of SCRPS, revealed that since 2019, Governor Sanwo-Olu's administration has built and renovated 4,000 classrooms. The committee has rehabilitated 386 blocks of classrooms in primary and secondary schools across the six education districts and constructed approximately 1,290 classroom blocks.

The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Tolani Alli-Balogun, emphasized that the commissioning of these projects aligns with the State government’s plan to promote top-notch education for all students. He noted that the projects highlight the Sanwo-Olu administration’s commitment to the educational and holistic well-being of the students, enhancing academic excellence and providing a conducive learning environment.

Governor Sanwo-Olu also charged secondary students to strive for academic excellence in their West African School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). He commended SCRPS for ensuring that all schools in Lagos State are equipped to meet the goals of his administration and promised to continue delivering school projects and equipping them with the necessary resources.

In addition to school infrastructure, Sanwo-Olu promised to deliver ongoing road projects in Ikorodu and build more primary and secondary schools for the benefit of the residents. The administration is also addressing challenges in the Ajegunle area with a massive construction and rehabilitation project at the Tolu School Complex, which houses numerous schools and students. Upon completion, the complex is expected to become a tourist attraction with modern facilities.

The administration has also constructed modular classrooms equipped with digital teaching tools and provided approximately 208,000 furniture for public schools. Furthermore, the governor has approved N2 billion for the payment of WAEC fees for SS3 students, reinforcing his commitment to education.