OEQA Celebrates World Literacy Day with Focus on Multilingual Education presents Awards to Best Private Schools and Teachers held at NUT Pavillion, Ikeja on Wednesday November 20th, 2024.
The Lagos State Office of Education Quality Assurance (OEQA) joined the global community to celebrate this year’s World Literacy Day, advocating for multilingual education as a powerful tool for promoting inclusivity, cultural diversity, and improved learning outcomes.
The event, themed “Promoting Multilingual Literacy for Mutual Understanding and Peace,” emphasized the pivotal role of language diversity in fostering inclusive education, cultural understanding, and social harmony.
Speaking at the event, held at the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) Pavilion, Alausa, on Wednesday, the Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Tolani Jamiu Ali-Balogun, highlighted the transformative power of literacy in driving positive change across all sectors of the economy.
He encouraged individuals to embrace reading and lifelong learning as tools for personal and societal growth. “Literacy is not just about reading and writing,” he said.
“It encompasses local intelligence, knowledge, wisdom, and shared experiences that transcend traditional definitions. Reading allows us to lead effectively and rediscover the vast possibilities of the world around us.”
The Commissioner emphasized the importance of multilingual education in breaking barriers, promoting mutual understanding, and preserving cultural heritage.
He noted that teaching in local languages could significantly improve literacy rates, especially in underserved communities where children often struggle with foreign languages as the primary medium of instruction.
Mr. Ali-Balogun commended OEQA’s efforts to align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in the areas of quality education and lifelong learning.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Basic & secondary Education, Mr. Abayomi Abolaji, called on everyone to contribute to achieving universal literacy.
“Be concerned about out-of-school children,” he said, “by showing support—even if it’s through volunteer teaching. Every child in Lagos must be able to read and write.”
In his keynote address, the Ag. Director-General of the Office of Education Quality Assurance, Mr. Remi Abdul, highlighted the transformative power of literacy in fostering inclusive and equitable education.
He stressed that multilingual education enables individuals to bridge cultural and linguistic gaps, promoting mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence.
“Literacy goes beyond reading and writing—it encompasses understanding, communication, and harmonious living,” Mr. Abdul remarked. “By embracing multilingual education, we can build a more inclusive world where people from diverse backgrounds coexist peacefully.”
He also acknowledged the relentless efforts of educators in Lagos State and reaffirmed OEQA’s commitment to supporting multilingual education programs, enhancing teacher training, and fostering inclusive learning environments.
The event also celebrated schools and teachers who excelled in the 2024 President’s Teachers and Schools Excellence Award screening exercise. The achievements were attributed to the unwavering commitment of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the leadership of the Honorable Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Tolani Ali-Balogun, in ensuring quality education in Lagos State.
The Chairman of the Lagos State Chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Mr. Akitoye Hassan, applauded the state government’s visible efforts in the education sector.
Represented by Mrs. Ola Abimbola, he commended the creativity and diversity showcased by students during cultural performances, highlighting their contributions to the vibrant educational landscape of Lagos.
In his welcome address, Mr. Idowu Hakeem Kehinde, Director of Planning at the Office of Education Quality Assurance, reiterated the critical role of literacy as the foundation of learning and societal development. He commended the unwavering support of dignitaries, educators, and stakeholders, emphasizing their collective role in building a brighter future for the children of Lagos State.
The event, which recognized outstanding teachers and schools for their dedication and innovation, also featured cultural displays that celebrated the rich linguistic diversity of Lagos. Top government officials, education district coordinating directors, heads of departments, private school owners associations, teachers, students, and other stakeholders in the education sector were in attendance.
Adepeju Adeyemi (Mrs)
DD, PA(OEQA)
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