Quote from Aisha_S on May 13, 2026, 7:43 am

In response to the rising number of out-of-school children in Lagos State, a coalition of parents and community leaders is advocating for a massive expansion of technical and vocational schools. They argue that traditional academic paths may not be suitable for all children and that practical skills offer a more direct route to employment. The proposal includes a call for state-subsidized apprenticeships in sectors like technology, construction, and renewable energy.

The surge in out-of-school children has been attributed to economic pressures on families and the high cost of higher education. Parents believe that by integrating technical training into the secondary school curriculum, children can acquire “marketable skills” that allow them to contribute to the household economy while staying in the educational system.

Governor Sanwo-Olu has responded positively to these calls, noting that his administration is already working on upgrading existing vocational centers. The state government is looking to partner with private sector companies to provide “on-the-job” training opportunities for students. This “dual education” model is seen as a way to address the skill gap in the Lagos labor market.

Advocates are also calling for a change in the societal perception of technical education. For too long, vocational paths have been seen as “second-rate,” but the current economic reality is proving that artisans and tech-savvy workers are in high demand. The coalition hopes that with more investment and awareness, Lagos can turn its youth population into a productive workforce.

https://punchng.com/lagos-parents-advocate-technical-schools-to-address-out-of-school-surge/