Lagos Seeks Expansion of Technical Education to Empower Youths
By Sodiq Adelakun
#Education #Politics #Nigeria
In a bold move toward enhancing educational opportunities for the youth, Lagos State’s Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, recently highlighted the urgent need for an increase in the number of technical colleges across the state. His comments come amidst ongoing concerns about the large number of out-of-school children and youths who need viable paths to success and stability.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony of over 2,000 students from the existing five technical colleges, Alli-Balogun pointed out a significant gap in the current educational infrastructure. “The technical colleges we have were established over 40 years ago, and with the ever-increasing youth population in Lagos, it’s clear we need more facilities to cater to this demand,” he stated. Located in areas such as Agidingbi (Ikeja), Adesoba (Amuwo-Odofin), Ikotun (Alimosho), Epe, and Ikorodu, these colleges are facing challenges accommodating the many young people seeking alternatives to traditional higher education.
The Commissioner emphasized the vital role that vocational education plays in national development, aligning his vision with the broader T.H.E.M.E.S PLUS agenda of the Lagos State government, spearheaded by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. The initiative, which focuses on improving education, health, and the economy, seeks to create more opportunities for youths, fostering a better-educated workforce equipped to meet the demands of Nigeria’s evolving economy.
During the ceremony, he urged the graduates to leverage the skills learned over their three-year training programs as they step into various industries. “You are now equipped to contribute to our nation’s growth—embrace your skills, strive for excellence, and remain committed to lifelong learning,” he advised.
Alli-Balogun also praised the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board (LASTVEB) for ensuring quality training programs while calling on instructors to maintain their dedication to nurturing the next generation of technicians in diverse fields.
The Commissioner’s push for more technical colleges represents not just a response to current educational demands but also an investment in the future of Lagos and Nigeria as a whole. As the state continues to embrace the transformative power of education, there’s a strong sense of optimism that these efforts will yield a brighter future for the nation’s youth.
Stay tuned as Lagos takes significant strides toward a more skilled and empowered populace—an essential process for unlocking the potential of Nigeria’s vibrant young generation.
