The Ovie Brume Foundation in partnership with the Barack Obama American Corner Lagos hosted a conversation café in commemoration of the International Day of Education with the aim of educating participants on different ways learning can empower people, preserve the planet, build shared prosperity and foster peace.
The conversations focused on the importance of inclusive and equitable quality education in Lagos state. To kick start the discussion, Dr (Mrs.) Yinka Ayandele, Tutor General and Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Education District III, addressed the need for inclusive education in schools. In her words “Every child should have access to education irrespective of their social or financial background”. Dr. Ayandele also highlighted population increase as one of the major challenges of Lagos state, stating that the Governor had ensured that all students were captured with the use of technology for adequate planning and budgeting.
Speaking further, the Tutor-General and other panellists analysed the state of education in Lagos state and how it can be improved to aid effective learning in schools. The panellist encouraged the students to strive for excellence while pursuing their academic goals. They also stressed the need for improved facilities and adequate teachers’ training which will directly impact the quality of education received by the students. Other discussions centred around the role of education in promoting prosperity and peace.
One of the highlights of the program, was the rendering of the Lagos State Education District III anthem by students and officials of the District. The session afforded participants an opportunity to ask pressing questions and contribute to the conversation. The students were delighted by the knowledge and insight gained during the program and were overjoyed by the rare opportunity to meet with the Tutor General, who in turn duly engaged them and responded to all their questions.
The conversation café was moderated by Joseph Onokpe, Program Officer, Ovie Brume Foundation. Discussants at the program were Dr. (Mrs.) Yinka Ayandele, Tutor General and Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Education District III, Ms. Utibe Henshaw, Senior Programme Officer, The Education Partnership Center, Ms. Angel Benson, Programme Coordinator, Empowering Africans Through Education Initiative, Mr. Oyebisi Samuel Oluyemi, Director, School Administration, Lagos State Education District III, Mrs. Oyebode Adeyinka, Deputy Director of Education, Government Senior College, Adeola Potts-Johnson, Head of Programs, Ovie brume Foundation.
