Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving education by announcing plans to establish additional Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) in the state. The governor made this promise during a courtesy visit by JAMB Registrar Prof. Ishaq Oloyede to the Lagos House in Ikeja.
To address the growing demand for CBT facilities, Sanwo-Olu revealed that sizable plots of land would be allocated in strategic locations, including Ojo, FESTAC, Ikorodu, and Mile 12, for the construction of new CBT centres. This initiative aims to support JAMB’s operations and provide easier access for candidates sitting for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
“Education is one of the strongest tools you can give to a human being,” Sanwo-Olu stated, emphasizing the critical role of education in fostering economic growth and empowering individuals. He highlighted his administration’s ongoing efforts to enhance the education sector, including the Teacher’s Merit Award, which recognizes outstanding educators with training opportunities, cash rewards, and vehicles.
“We will continue to encourage people to remain in the teaching sector. That is the only way we can keep the profession alive,” the governor added.
Collaborations and Staff Development Initiatives
Sanwo-Olu disclosed that Lagos State had partnered with a public school in Singapore to improve staff development and reiterated the state’s investment in one of the country’s top public service staff development schools. He commended Prof. Oloyede for his transformative leadership at JAMB, praising his integrity, dedication, and commitment to excellence.
“I commend him for the remarkable transformation he has brought to JAMB. His dedication, integrity, and commitment to excellence have not gone unnoticed,” Sanwo-Olu said.
The governor emphasized the importance of partnerships in advancing educational opportunities for youth and expressed optimism about the potential for collaborations to drive positive impacts on education in Lagos and across Nigeria.
“Together, I believe we can achieve even more significant milestones to benefit our state and the entire country by enhancing the educational landscape and creating opportunities for our youths,” he stated.
Oloyede Appeals for Further Support
In response, JAMB Registrar Prof. Ishaq Oloyede expressed gratitude for the Lagos State Government’s support, particularly the planned establishment of new CBT centres. He noted the disparity in Lagos, which accounts for 15% of UTME candidates nationwide but has less than 10% of the country’s CBT centres.
Oloyede highlighted the logistical challenges faced by Lagos-based candidates, 90% of whom reside on the Mainland while JAMB’s office is located in Ikoyi. He appealed for assistance in relocating the office to a more central location to better serve candidates.
“We extend our hands of partnership in sensitisation programmes. Priming our students for examinations is necessary, and this cannot be done without the state’s support,” Oloyede said.
Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his commitment to collaborating with JAMB and other stakeholders to advance educational opportunities and create a brighter future for the youth in Lagos and beyond.