By Sodiq Adelakun
The Permanent-Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Basic Education, Abayomi Abolaji, highlighted the crucial role that increased efforts from parents, teachers, and students will play in the upcoming academic session.
With the commencement of the 2023/2024 academic session on Monday, September 4, under the new harmonised academic school calendar, all schools in Lagos State are gearing up for a fresh start.
The Permanent-Secretary stressed the importance of active participation from parents in supporting their children’s education.
Abolaji emphasised the need for parents to actively engage in their children’s education. By providing support and guidance, parents can create a conducive learning environment at home.
This involvement can range from helping with homework to attending parent-teacher meetings and staying updated on their child’s progress.
Abolaji urged teachers to employ effective teaching methods that cater to the diverse learning needs of their students.
Furthermore, the Permanent-Secretary highlighted the importance of dedication and commitment to studies from students. He encouraged students to take ownership of their education and strive for excellence. By developing good study habits, setting goals, and seeking assistance when needed, students can maximize their learning potential.
Abolaji emphasised the significance of a collaborative approach among all stakeholders in the education sector. By working together, parents, teachers, and students can create a holistic educational experience that nurtures the overall development of students.
The Permanent-Secretary acknowledged the challenges faced by the education sector, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. He assured that the Lagos State Ministry of Basic Education is committed to providing necessary support and resources to ensure a smooth and successful academic session.
In addition to academic development, the Permanent-Secretary emphasised the need for a well-rounded education. He encouraged schools to prioritise extracurricular activities that promote physical, social, and emotional growth among students.
He reiterated the importance of sustained efforts from all stakeholders to create an educational system that prepares students for the challenges of the modern world.
However, the upcoming academic session in Lagos State calls for increased efforts from parents, teachers, and students. By fostering a collaborative approach and prioritising active participation, effective teaching methods, and dedication to studies, the education sector in Lagos State can continue to thrive and contribute to the overall development of its students.
Abolaji said, ‘’In September, we will be starting a new academic calendar; 2023/2024 session, and we urge parents, teachers and even the students to continue to contribute their quota.
”Our parents, we know times are tough, but let’s remember that these students are our future and it is most important that we plan and lay a good foundation for them.
“I, therefore, urge them to keep on assisting in all the way that these children need to fly, as they need us to provide them with that wing and air to flap the wing in order for them to sower.
“So, putting all of these together, our parents should realise that what they are doing now is securing the future of these children and ensuring that their future is not truncated.”
He noted that collective effort would help the education system in Lagos State to be further strengthened.
According to him, this will lead to better educational outcomes and a brighter future for all.
The Permanent-Secretary applauded teachers for their commitment and described the profession as a noble one, and encouraged them to do more for the students.
He said that the Lagos State Government (LASG) values, appreciates and recognises contributions of teachers, noting that they are key stakeholders to development of education in the state.