Lagos State Advocates Equal Opportunities for Students in Low-Cost Private Schools

The General Manager of the Lagos State Residents Registration Agency (LASRRA), Bilikiss Adebiyi-Abiola, emphasised that registering students in low-cost private schools is essential to ensuring that all residents are accurately represented in government planning for better access to crucial services.

This was stated on Thursday during her address at the official relaunch and inaugural conference of the SEED-LASRRA Partnership held at NECA House Events Centre, Ikeja, with the theme, “No Child Left Behind.”

She noted, “With a growing population and diverse educational landscape, these pupils are often under-represented in official data. Registering them will enhance educational planning and strengthen community development; thereby, a sense of belonging among pupils and their families is assured and, in essence, promote civic engagement and community participation.”

Founder and Executive Director of SEED Care & Support Foundation, Olanrewaju Oniyitan, added that all children, regardless of socioeconomic background, gender, or age, deserve equal access to education.

She stated, “Education unlocks different opportunities, and it is the most profound investment one can make.”

Oniyitan also urged organisations and institutions to collaborate with the foundation rather than work in isolation, asserting that such partnerships would be more effective in ensuring educational access for all children.

“This is a mandate and not a vision. LASRRA’s initiatives can align with the Foundation’s goals, allowing for more cohesive planning and execution of programmes aimed at improving education and economic outcomes.

“LASRRA’s role in data management, service access, community engagement, policy alignment, and evaluation supports the Seed Care and Foundation’s mission to promote sustainable education and economic development,” she concluded.

The event featured a documentary showcasing the challenges faced by children and families in underserved communities, highlighting the importance of the initiative.