Lagos State has pledged to commit more resources to Teacher’s Welfare and take their well-being as a priority in this new administration.
The State Commissioner, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun gave the assurance while addressing the National Union of Teachers Lagos State Wing to felicitate with them on this year’s World Teachers Day.
The Commissioner who described the teachers as the most valuable human resource and asset in the provision of education said that “the State is privy of their role to providing quality Basic and Secondary Education in the State and would continue to give them the necessary support to succeed.”
“I would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to all our dedicated and remarkable teachers in Lagos State for the celebration of Y2023 Teachers Day.
“Today is also remarkable for me personally as a trained teacher and proudly one of you in spirit and practice. I am equally elated to be in your midst officially for the first time since I was sworn as the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education in Lagos State,” he said.
Alli-Balogun said; “Therefore, I seize this opportunity to restate the Ministry’s recognition of your significant role, especially as it concerns our core function of providing quality basic and secondary education in Lagos State.
“We also appreciate your ageless duty in helping to plant the seed of knowledge from foundation with passion. This you have done with unfading desire for the benefit of the State and Nigeria.”
Ali-Balogun eulogized them saying the teachers had done much more and deserved to receive more.
He said; “You are not just teachers, but also mentors, role models and pillars of strength. Your influence spreads beyond the classrooms, inspiring students to achieve their dreams, embrace diversity, and become responsible citizens.”
The State Ministry of Education was recently divided into the Tertiary and Basic Secondary Education and this, the Commissioner mentioned would not affect implementation of education transformation in the State
He said; “I wish to state that, notwithstanding the recent change in nomenclature, the Ministry will continue the implementation of the education transformation plan as spearheaded by our dear Governor, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu.
“The Ministry will continue to treat your welfare as utmost priority all the time. We recognise teachers as ‘the goose that lays the golden egg’ hence the need to ensure you get our maximum attention.
We will continue to provide capacity building for our teachers alongside investment in digital tools for your improved teaching delivery and performance. The Ministry with your support will increase focus on technical education and help to provide more opportunities for the learners.”
Alli-Balogun said; “I wish to assure all teachers in Lagos State, especially our teachers in Basic and Secondary classes that we see you as the cornerstone of the State strive for total quality teaching and learning transformation in all our schools.”
He however thanked the State National Union of Teachers for the sustained partnership and support to the Ministry as he promised to continue to nurture the relationship for the benefit of the State children and the upliftment of education.
Mercy Chukwudiebere
