During the commissioning of a new block of classrooms and furniture at the Amuwo-Odofin Junior High School Complex, the Lagos State Government issued a stern warning to teachers and schools found engaging in extra lessons beyond official hours. The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, emphasized that the additional hour after the official closing time should be dedicated to extracurricular activities, not extra lessons for which pupils pay.
Alli-Balogun highlighted the importance of students’ participation in various social activities and clubs like the Red Cross, Red Crescent, Boys Scout, Boys/Girls Brigade, STEM Club, Writing and Debate Club, among others, to ensure their holistic development.
Expressing disapproval of the prevalent practice where the first lesson in many public schools across the state is often neglected by teachers, the commissioner warned of decisive actions against any teacher found neglecting their duties.
He stated, “Perform your duties within the designated time frame of 8 am to 2 pm, and leave the extra hour for reading or extracurricular activities. The exploitation of this time for paid extra lessons will no longer be tolerated in Lagos State. Education is provided free of charge in Lagos, and no fees should be levied for any services.”
