Lagos SUBEB and British Council Launch English Proficiency Training for 2,000 Primary School Teachers

The Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB), in collaboration with the British Council, has launched an ambitious initiative to enhance the English language skills of 2,000 primary school teachers across Lagos State. The “Strengthening Teachers’ English Proficiency Training” program was officially inaugurated on Monday at the Lagos SUBEB Multipurpose Hall.

The event attracted several high-profile attendees, including Honourable Jamiu Alli-Balogun, Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education; Dr. Hakeem Babatunde Shittu, Executive Chairman of LASUBEB; and Lucy Pearson, Country Director of the British Council, represented by Mr. Chikodi. Other notable attendees included Dr. Fwanshishak and Dr. Albert from the British Council, 40 facilitators, and representatives from the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN), Education Secretaries from the 20 Local Government Education Authorities (LGEAs), and participating teachers.

In his speech, Honourable Jamiu Alli-Balogun emphasized Lagos State’s dedication to educational innovation and alignment with global standards. He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to upgrading its Colleges of Education to university status, aiming to produce well-qualified teachers. “In Lagos State, we are setting the pace for others to follow,” he asserted.

Dr. Hakeem Babatunde Shittu highlighted the importance of the collaboration with the British Council. “This partnership underscores our commitment to teacher development and excellence in education,” he said.

Mr. Owolabi Jamiu Falana, Permanent Board Member in Charge of the Teacher Professional Development Department at LASUBEB, emphasized the critical role of English proficiency in today’s globalized world. “By strengthening our teachers’ English skills, we are empowering them to provide world-class education and prepare our students for success in an ever-changing landscape,” he remarked. He also noted that the “Strengthening Teacher English Proficiency (STEP)” program exemplifies their dedication to teacher development and student excellence.

The launch of this program signifies a robust public-private partnership aimed at advancing the quality of basic education in Lagos State. Dignitaries at the event stressed the need for continued initiatives of this nature to maintain and elevate the state’s educational standards.