Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Wednesday, officially inaugurated newly constructed and renovated blocks of classrooms at Keme Balogun Senior and Junior Colleges in Ibeshe, Ikorodu.
This milestone event marked the beginning of a series of similar projects being launched across the state to enhance learning environments.
Among the upgraded schools are Awori Junior College, Ojo; Euba Junior High School, Mushin; Ipara Junior College, Majiyagbe; Mainland Junior Secondary School, Fadeyi; St. Luke Junior Secondary School, Bariga; State Junior High School, Ibereko, Badagry, and Thogli Community Grammar School, also in Badagry.
Before the commissioning, the governor inspected the state-of-the-art classroom block at Ajegunle Junior High School in Kosofe Local Government Area. Emphasizing the significance of education in his administration’s THEMES Plus agenda, Sanwo-Olu stated, “Education is the cornerstone of our THEMES Plus agenda. It is the engine that drives economic growth, reduces inequality, and empowers individuals to break the circle of poverty.”
He further noted that investments in education directly strengthen the socioeconomic fabric of communities.
“These newly renovated and constructed facilities will serve as a catalyst for change, providing our children with the tools they need to compete in an increasingly globalized world. The construction of a block of 18 classrooms, the renovation of existing structures, and the addition of modern facilities like the food canteen, Intro-tech block, and sports fields will create an environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and physically,” he explained.
The governor highlighted that the school projects not only improved educational facilities but also created employment opportunities during the construction phase, boosting the local economy.
“Moving forward, the improved infrastructure will enhance the quality of education and increase enrollment rates. This, in turn, will lead to a more educated and skilled workforce, capable of driving innovation and economic development in our state.
“Moreover, the emphasis on technical education through the new Intro-tech block is particularly significant,” he added.
The Chairman of the Special Committee on Repair of Public Schools, Hakeem Smith, shared insights into the project’s development, revealing that the governor promptly ordered renovations after the school’s deteriorating state was brought to his attention.
Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Tolani Alli-Balogun, reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to quality education, stating that the simultaneous inauguration of 16 classroom blocks across Lagos reflects Sanwo-Olu’s unwavering commitment to providing “top-notch education to Lagosians.”
