LASUBEB, Women Affairs Ministry Empower 200 Parents to Reduce Out-of-school Children

In an effort to tackle the escalating number of out-of-school children, the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB) in partnership with the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation has trained 200 parents and guardians of out- of-school children who are enrolled into public primary schools in the state under its 'project zero' initiative. The training covered a variety of skills, including hair and wig making, event decoration and management, fabric embellishment, and snacks and beverage production. Additional skills taught included soap and pomade making, throw pillow and duvet creation, Ankara crafts, leatherwork, makeup and Gele-tying as well as tie-dye techniques. Speaking at the second phase of the skills acquisition training held at the weekend, the Executive Chairman of the board, Dr. Hakeem Shittu, explained that the programme was aimed at empowering families, enhancing their livelihoods, and promoting regular school attendance. He highlighted the board’s commitment to creating a supportive environment that emphasises the importance of education. According to him, "The administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is steadfast in its mission to reduce the number of school-aged children not attending school," adding that a total of 450 parents had benefited from the programme. Shittu remarked that the initiative, aside improving enrolment and retention rates, would also fortify community bonds through active engagement in the educational process. “LASUBEB's proactive measures to address the out-of-school crisis reflect a commitment to leaving no child behind in the access to free quality basic education," he said. In her remarks, the Lagos State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Bolaji Dada, appreciated the governor for the opportunity to host the second edition of the programme and appealed to the participant who have been empowered, to actively use their skills rather than remaining idle. On their part, the participants thanked the state government for helping them move out of poverty.