The Honourable Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, has directed that all school Principals and Vice Principals must actively engage in classroom teaching, in a decisive move aimed at strengthening discipline, accountability, and leadership in Lagos State public schools.
According to Mr. Alli-Balogun, Principals are now mandated to teach a minimum of six periods weekly, while Vice Principals are expected to teach at least eight periods per week.
He emphasized that these teaching schedules must be clearly reflected in the official school timetables, signifying a deliberate effort to reposition school leadership as hands-on and participatory in the academic process.
“We are appealing for a change of mind-set towards leadership in our schools. School heads must not be seen as mere administrators but as academic leaders who model discipline and active participation in the classroom,” Mr. Alli-Balogun stated.
The Commissioner further stressed the importance of restoring a disciplined and effective teaching environment across the state. As part of this renewed commitment to excellence, the Office of Education Quality Assurance (OEQA) has been tasked with intensifying its oversight role.
He charged the OEQA to be more effective in monitoring and reporting misconducts, stressing that all cases of truancy, sexual molestation, absenteeism, and negligence to duty among teachers must be reported without bias or coloration.
“We are expecting uncoloured reports. No cover-ups, no favoritism. The quality assurance process must reflect the truth and guide necessary disciplinary actions,” he added.
The Commissioner’s directives are part of an overarching reform agenda aimed at promoting quality teaching, improving student outcomes, and fostering a culture of responsibility and professionalism in the state’s public school system.
These initiatives are expected to serve as a wake-up call to school leaders, educators, and quality assurance officers, reiterating the commitment of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration to quality, discipline, and excellence in the education sector.
INN-HOUSE☆ 