Lagos Commissioner advocates for more technical colleges to empower out-of-school youths
By Sodiq Adelakun
The Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, on Wednesday emphasised the urgent need for more technical colleges across the state to provide opportunities for out-of-school children and youths.
He called for a strategic increase in the number of institutions to absorb the growing number of young people who remain outside the formal education system and face uncertain futures.
In his remarks, the Commissioner pointed out that the five existing technical colleges — located in Agidingbi (Ikeja), Adesoba (Amuwo-Odofin), Ikotun (Alimosho), Epe, and Ikorodu, were no longer sufficient to meet the increasing demand for technical education.
These colleges, established over four decades ago, are struggling to accommodate the rising number of students seeking alternatives to traditional schooling.
“The current technical colleges were set up over 40 years ago and, given the growing demand, it’s clear that more technical colleges need to be established in the 20 local government areas of Lagos State,” Alli-Balogun stated.
The Commissioner made these comments at the combined graduation ceremony of over 2,000 students from the state’s five technical colleges.
He urged the new graduates to utilise the skills and knowledge gained from their three-year training programs as they transition into the workforce.
Addressing the audience, Alli-Balogun emphasised the importance of technical and vocational education in driving national development.
He noted that the 6-3-3-4 education system, which integrates technical and vocational education, was designed to meet the evolving socio-economic, technological, and political needs of the country.
The Commissioner also acknowledged the role of the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board (LASTVEB) in ensuring quality training and urged instructors to continue their commitment to producing well-rounded technicians in various fields.
He commended the graduates for their perseverance and hard work, urging them to strive for excellence and contribute meaningfully to nation-building.
Alli-Balogun reiterated that the push for more technical colleges is in line with the T.H.E.M.E.S PLUS agenda of the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration, which seeks to improve education, health, and economic development in Lagos State.
He expressed optimism that the state’s ongoing efforts in expanding technical education would result in better opportunities for youths, ultimately contributing to the state’s and country’s development.
