Patrick Kelechi, Lagos
DAILY COURIER - Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has announced the graduation of over 2,000 students from the state’s five Government Technical Colleges, describing them as skilled professionals ready to contribute to Lagos State’s growing economy.
The milestone was marked during the 2024 Graduation Ceremony, organized by the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board (LASTVEB), an event that showcased the state government’s commitment to education, technology, and youth empowerment.
Speaking at the event, Governor Sanwo-Olu praised the graduates for their hard work and the skills they acquired, emphasizing the pivotal role of technical and vocational education in fostering a dynamic economy.
"Today, we celebrate not just the achievements of these young men and women but also the potential they represent for the future of Lagos State and Nigeria. Technical and vocational education equips our youth with practical skills essential for driving economic growth," he said.
The graduates have been trained in fields such as engineering, construction, ICT, business, and the creative arts, equipping them with the expertise to thrive in an increasingly competitive job market.
Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted the administration’s strategic focus on youth development as part of its T.H.E.M.E.S+ agenda, which prioritizes transportation, health, education, and technology, among others.
"This initiative aligns with our vision of investing in the skills of our youth to build a prosperous and inclusive society. By empowering our young people, we ensure that Lagos remains a beacon of innovation and progress," the governor added.
LASTVEB Executive Secretary, Ms. Ronke Azeez, commended the state government for its unwavering support of technical and vocational education.
"These graduates are a testament to the success of our programs and the deliberate investments by the Sanwo-Olu administration in providing a future-ready workforce for Lagos State," Ms. Azeez remarked.
The board also reiterated its commitment to scaling up technical and vocational training across the state to meet evolving industry demands.
As Lagos continues to position itself as a hub for innovation and enterprise, the graduation of skilled professionals from technical colleges serves as a critical step toward addressing the skills gap in key sectors.
With the continued support of the government and stakeholders, these graduates are expected to play significant roles in driving the state's economic transformation, contributing to industries like engineering, ICT, and the creative economy.
The ceremony concluded with Governor Sanwo-Olu reaffirming his administration’s dedication to creating opportunities for young people and fostering an environment where their talents can flourish.
"The success of these graduates gives us hope for the future of Lagos. Together, we are building a legacy of empowerment and excellence," he concluded.
The event serves as a reminder of the critical role technical and vocational education plays in achieving inclusive development and sustainable economic growth in Lagos State.
