The Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, has called for the establishment of more technical colleges across the state’s 20 local government areas to accommodate out-of-school children and youths.
Speaking at the combined graduation ceremony of students from the state’s five technical colleges, the commissioner emphasized the urgent need to expand technical and vocational education to meet increasing demand.
Technical Education: A Priority for Lagos
According to Alli-Balogun, the current five technical colleges established over four decades ago in Agidingbi (Ikeja), Amuwo-Odofin, Ikotun (Alimosho), Epe, and Ikorodu, are no longer sufficient to cater to the growing number of youths seeking alternatives to traditional education.
“The five technical colleges established by the state government over four decades ago are no longer adequate, especially considering the increasing demand for technical education as the best alternative to regular school,” he said.
The commissioner underscored the role of technical education in national development, stating, “No nation anywhere in the world can develop progressively without vibrant and robust technical and vocational education in place.”
The T.H.E.M.E.S PLUS Agenda
Alli-Balogun also linked the push for expanded technical education to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s T.H.E.M.E.S PLUS Agenda, which prioritizes education and youth empowerment as part of building a new Lagos. He described Sanwo-Olu as “The architect and model of a new Lagos.”
Message to Graduates
Congratulating over 2,000 graduates from the five technical colleges, Alli-Balogun urged them to leverage their skills for meaningful contributions to the economy.
“Now that you have transited from students to skilled technicians, ensure you make meaningful impacts in your chosen fields and in the growth and development of the country and global economy at large,” he advised.
Encouraging them to aim high, he added, “Think beyond your current circumstances, dream big, and strive for excellence in all you do.”
Commendation for LASTVEB
The commissioner also applauded the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board (LASTVEB) and the instructors for their dedication to producing skilled technicians, urging them to continue improving their service delivery.
This call for more technical colleges is expected to contribute significantly to addressing the challenge of out-of-school children and boosting Lagos State’s socio-economic development.
