The Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria has said that the improvement in security in public schools across Lagos State was commendable.
The group said the commencement of 24-hour surveillance in public schools showed government’s concern for literacy.
The Amir (President) of the MSSN in Lagos State, Dr. Saheed Ashafa, said this in a press release ahead of the organisation’s conference holding between Friday and Sunday, September 17, in Badagry.
During the conference, which is expected to produce another set of leaders for the MSSN Lagos, the executive governor of Lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode will deliver the keynote address on the theme.
Among other speakers at the conference are: President of The Companion, Alhaji Najeem Jimoh; Director, Vanguards Academy, Zafaran Adeniyi; and Head of Television Continental News, Mr Babajide Otitoju.
Ashafa explained that the improved state of security would boost the morale of parents and students towards education.
He explained that it was important for the state government to also ensure adequate supply of electricity in schools.
He said, “Education remains a key element and yardstick for measuring the growth of any state. Lagos’ lofty plan of becoming a smart city will not be of any benefit without the provision of a conducive learning environment. Neither the teachers nor students can perform at their best in an environment laden with fear and insecurity. Hopefully, with the improved security situation, many parents will have confidence to return their children to school.
“However, we urge government not to wait for crisis to occur in any school or the education sector before being proactive in tacking its challenges. The provision of qualitative education in the state should be a priority in the plan of government at all levels.”
Ashafa
The educationist urged pupils and teachers to also justify the investment of government in education through outstanding performances.
He appealed to security personnel to approach the task of ensuring surveillance in schools with diligence.
Speaking on the conference, Ashafa explained that the theme: ‘Peaceful coexistence: The education agenda’, was chosen due to the need for the review of the Nigerian education system.
“Investment in education remains a vibrant tool for ensuring peace, but this seems to have been neglected. We hope to unveil new dimensions to ensuring peace in the nation,” he added