The Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has issued a directive to school principals, urging them to implement strategies that will enhance students’ performance in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Tolani Alli-Balogun, expressed dissatisfaction over students’ declining performance in the WASSCE and other external examinations. She made this known in a statement issued on Sunday by Kayode Sutton, Deputy Director of Public Affairs.
“I expected students’ performance to improve, not decline, given the substantial resources allocated to education,” Alli-Balogun stated during a series of strategic meetings held across the state’s six education districts.
Despite the Lagos State government’s heavy investment in education, she lamented that academic outcomes remain below expectations. To address this, she directed principals to implement stricter academic standards, including the promotion of only high-achieving students to terminal classes.
“This approach will motivate final-year students to work harder and strive for excellence, ultimately improving academic performance across the board,” she explained.
Emphasis on Holistic Education
Beyond academics, Alli-Balogun called for a revival of extracurricular activities that engage students’ natural learning abilities and promote their physical and mental well-being. She emphasized the need to reinstate sports, creative arts, and hands-on learning activities that align with the ministry’s educational objectives.
“Students should be encouraged to express themselves through art, music, drama, and other creative platforms. Schools can foster this by allowing students to lead clubs, projects, and organizations that reflect their personal interests and strengths,” she added.
The commissioner believes that by combining academic rigor with holistic development, students will receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for future success.
The Lagos State government has pledged to continue monitoring school performance, ensuring that necessary reforms are implemented to elevate education standards and produce better WASSCE results in the coming years.
(NAN)
