Lagos calls for unified academic calendar across schools

In an effort to streamline educational processes and enhance academic consistency, the Lagos State Office of Education Quality Assurance (OEQA) has initiated discussions with education stakeholders concerning the Y2024/2025 Academic Calendar.

The meeting, which took place at the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board premises in Maryland, aimed to align both government and private schools on a synchronized academic timeline.

A statement released by Adepeju Adeyemi, the spokesperson for OEQA, highlighted the importance of fostering collaboration between educational institutions to ensure a cohesive learning environment. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Abayomi Abolaji, commended the longstanding partnership between the state government and school proprietors, emphasizing the significance of collective efforts in advancing the education sector.

During the engagement, Fabambi Falayi, the Director of Private Education Special Programs at OEQA, emphasized the need for a unified Harmonised Lagos State School Calendar for the upcoming academic session. Falayi underscored the objective of the meeting, stating that it aimed to facilitate seamless and high-quality learning experiences for students across all educational levels in the state.

“The essence of this engagement is to ensure that all schools below the tertiary level in the state are on the same page with respect to the school academic calendar,” Falayi remarked. She guided participants through interactive sessions aimed at drafting comprehensive academic calendars tailored to meet the needs of diverse educational institutions.

Earlier in January, OEQA had granted provisional approval to 199 new private school owners, indicating a growth in the number of registered private primary and secondary schools in the state. This increase reflects the continued expansion of educational opportunities within Lagos, underscoring the need for standardized academic practices to uphold quality education across the board.

The stakeholders’ meeting signifies a proactive approach by the Lagos State government to address educational challenges and promote synergy among educational stakeholders. By advocating for a uniform academic calendar, authorities aim to enhance efficiency, foster collaboration, and ultimately elevate the overall quality of education in the state.