Dr. Femi Majekodunmi, Chairman of the Ogun State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), has announced the commencement of construction and rehabilitation for approximately 360 projects across the state’s three Senatorial Districts. This development was disclosed during a brief interaction with reporters in Abeokuta on Wednesday, as stated by Tolu Ogunjimi, the agency’s Press Officer.
These projects are being funded through the 2018-2019 Intervention Project Fund provided by both the state and Federal governments, and they are slated for completion within a three-month timeframe. Dr. Majekodunmi noted that selected contractors have already received contracts to undertake these initiatives, which encompass the construction and renovation of classrooms, toilet facilities, installation of boreholes, provision of furniture, and e-library materials, among other crucial components.
He emphasized the importance of contractors adhering to the specified quality standards outlined in their Bill of Quantity, with particular emphasis on ensuring the safety of the students who will benefit from these projects. The agency will not tolerate substandard work.
Additionally, Dr. Majekodunmi commended Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration for collaborating with the Universal Basic Education Commission on the School-to-Farm program in primary and junior secondary schools. This program aims to revive young learners’ interest in agricultural practices and offers a more hands-on approach compared to the predominantly theoretical teaching of agriculture in recent years.
The Chairman explained that this agricultural education program would expose students to various career prospects in agriculture, including agribusiness, agro-technology, agricultural engineering, sustainable farming methods, and rural development. Students will engage in activities such as poultry farming, animal husbandry, maize and cassava farming, and more, with the added benefit of boosting food production in the country.
In his remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, represented by Mrs. Bamidele Makinde, the Director of Primary Education in the state, stressed that involving children in agriculture at a young age would help them learn essential life lessons. He urged education stakeholders to support this initiative as part of the state government’s efforts to foster learners’ interest in agricultural enterprises.
Mr. Kalejaiye Tunde, Headteacher-General for Remo Division, praised the program for its potential to provide students with practical agricultural experience and change their perception of farming, ultimately contributing to increased food production and diversification of career choices.