The Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, has called for the establishment of additional technical colleges across the 20 local government areas of the state to accommodate the increasing number of out-of-school children and youths.
Speaking at the combined graduation ceremony of students from the five existing technical colleges in Lagos, Alli-Balogun emphasized that the current facilities, established over four decades ago, are no longer sufficient to meet the growing demand for technical education.
The commissioner noted that the five technical colleges located in Agidingbi (Ikeja), Adesoba (Amuwo-Odofin), Ikotun (Alimosho), Epe, and Ikorodu cannot adequately cater to the increasing number of students seeking technical education as an alternative to conventional schooling.
“The 6-3-3-4 education system was designed to address the socio-economic, technological, and political advancement of the nation, with technical and vocational education playing a crucial role in this framework. However, to achieve these goals, we must expand access by establishing more technical colleges,” he stated.
Alli-Balogun further highlighted the pivotal role of technical education in national development, asserting that no country can achieve progressive growth without a robust technical and vocational education system. He linked this philosophy to the T.H.E.M.E.S+ Agenda of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration, describing the governor as “the architect and model of a new Lagos.”
The commissioner also congratulated over 2,000 graduating students, urging them to leverage their skills and training for meaningful contributions to national and global economic growth.
“Now that you have transitioned from students to skilled technicians, ensure you make meaningful impacts in your chosen fields and contribute to the country’s development. Dream big, think beyond your current circumstances, and strive for excellence,” Alli-Balogun advised.
He commended the efforts of the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board (LASTVEB) and instructors for their dedication to producing skilled professionals, urging them to continue delivering improved service in technical education.
The call for more technical colleges underscores the government’s commitment to reducing the number of out-of-school children and promoting youth empowerment through skill acquisition, aligning with Lagos State’s vision for a prosperous and inclusive society.
