Concerns Over Out-of-School Children Prompt Call for Vocational Schools in Agege
Parents attending the Agege Parent Forum in Lagos State have raised alarms about the significant number of out-of-school children in the region. They are urging the government to establish more vocational schools aimed at youths who cannot pursue traditional educational pathways.
Alarming Statistics on Education in Nigeria
The United Nations Children’s Fund reports that an estimated 18.3 million children in Nigeria are currently out of school. This figure includes 10.2 million at the primary level and 8.1 million at the secondary level, highlighting a pressing issue that requires immediate attention.
Community Meeting Highlights Educational Gaps
The call for action was made during the annual general meeting of the Agege Parent Forum, held on Tuesday at Agege Stadium. The forum not only addressed educational concerns but also publicly endorsed the second-term ambitions of Jubril Abdulkarem, the local lawmaker representing the Agege II state constituency.
Advocacy for Alternative Education Options
During the event, Mr. Oluwatoyin Ike, the Zonal Secretary-General of the Forum, pointed out that many children roam the streets post-High School Certificate examinations due to limited educational and vocational options. She noted that this situation has spawned a growing number of unproductive youth in the community.
Urgent Need for Vocational Training
Ike emphasized the urgent need for government intervention, stating, “The children who are still walking under bridges today are the leaders of tomorrow.” She urged the Lagos State government and local legislators to establish vocational schools within Agege and surrounding areas, offering alternatives for students who may struggle in traditional classrooms.
Challenges of Educational Infrastructure
Concerns were also raised about inadequate infrastructure within government schools, notably a lack of seating and essential learning facilities. Parents expressed that the onus of improving these conditions should not solely fall upon them.
Recognizing Support from Local Lawmakers
Despite the challenges, Ike commended Jubril Abdulkarem for his support of educational initiatives in the area. Over the past four years, the lawmaker has sponsored free joint admissions and registration forms for students, significantly supporting their educational journeys. “In our first year, we started with 100 students, and about 60 gained college admission,” she noted, indicating ongoing progress in the initiative.
Equity in Educational Support
Forum leaders also called for fairness in the distribution of scholarships and educational resources. “There should be no favoritism in awarding scholarships,” Ike stated, stressing the need for universal support in educational opportunities for all children in the community. Mr. Aminat Quadri, a parent from the Isare-Ojah area, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the financial relief such initiatives have provided for families.
