The Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB), in collaboration with the British Council, inaugurated the Strengthening Teachers’ English Proficiency Training on Monday, June 24, 2024.

The opening ceremony, held at the Lagos SUBEB Multipurpose Hall, marked the commencement of a significant initiative aimed at improving the English language skills and classroom communication abilities of 2,000 primary school teachers in Lagos State.

The event was graced by numerous dignitaries, including Honourable Jamiu Alli-Balogun, Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education; Dr. Hakeem Babatunde Shittu, Executive Chairman of LASUBEB; Lucy Pearson, Country Director of the British Council, represented by Mr. Chikodi; Dr. Fwanshishak and Dr. Albert from the British Council; and 40 facilitators.

Representatives from the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN), Education Secretaries from the 20 Local Government Education Authorities (LGEAs), and participating teachers were also in attendance.

In his address, Honourable Jamiu Alli-Balogun highlighted the Lagos State Government’s innovative educational initiatives, emphasizing the alignment with global best practices.

He reiterated the state’s commitment to upgrading all Lagos State Colleges of Education to university standards, aiming to produce well-equipped teachers for the state’s educational system. “In Lagos State, we are setting the pace for others to follow,” he stated.

Dr. Hakeem Babatunde Shittu, Executive Chairman of LASUBEB, underscored the significance of the partnership with the British Council, stating, “This collaboration demonstrates our commitment to teacher development and excellence in education.”

Mr. Owolabi Jamiu Falana, Permanent Board Member in Charge of the Teacher Professional Development (TPD) Department at LASUBEB, emphasized the global importance of English proficiency.

“In our increasingly globalized world, English has become the language of opportunity, innovation, and progress. By strengthening our teachers’ English proficiency and communication skills, we are empowering them to provide our learners with a world-class education, preparing them for success in an ever-changing landscape,” he remarked.

He added that the “Strengthening Teacher English Proficiency (STEP)” program is a testament to their dedication to teacher development and learner excellence.

The ceremony was a clear demonstration of the Lagos State Government’s public-private partnership initiative in the development of basic education.

Top dignitaries at the event stressed the need for more initiatives of this magnitude to continue advancing the state’s educational standards.