Ogun pledges more legacy projects in schools

The Ogun State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, has said the Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration remains committed to upgrading school facilities to sustain high academic standards across the state.

Arigbabu disclosed that the government had initiated an assessment of facilities in its 86 flagship secondary schools as part of efforts to improve infrastructure and learning conditions.

Speaking during a strategic meeting with Zonal Education Officers from the 20 local government areas and principals of the flagship schools at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, the commissioner said the move was aimed at repositioning and strengthening the secondary school system for improved academic performance.

According to him, the state government has designated certain institutions as “flagship schools” to serve as models for others in areas such as student population control, classroom management, provision of digital teaching tools, and conducive learning environments.

Arigbabu, however, warned principals of the selected schools against engaging in activities that could undermine educational standards. He emphasised that transfers into the flagship schools would not be permitted at any level.

He also urged the principals to be creative, forward-thinking, and proactive, encouraging them to develop innovative ideas that would distinguish their schools. He assured them that the government would remain committed to repositioning the education sector.

“We are bringing legacy projects to all schools. These projects will equip science laboratories with smart equipment, furniture, libraries, new buildings, interactive boards, modern toilets, solar power, and more. However, this will be based on the specific needs of each school,” Arigbabu said.

“We are beginning with the 86 flagship secondary schools, after which attention will be extended to other schools,” he added.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mrs. Oluwatosin Oloko, commended the principals for supporting the government’s repositioning initiative in their schools. She noted that under the supervision of the commissioner, several transformative policies and projects had been implemented across schools in the state, particularly the flagship institutions.

In his response, the President of the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPPSS), Mr. Alaba Olugbewesa, urged his colleagues to heed the commissioner’s call by developing ideas that would enhance the reputation and performance of their schools.