Sir: In the dynamic world of education, where progress is measured in terms of both quality and inclusivity, the EKO Excellence in Child Education and Learning (EKOEXCEL) programme in Lagos State stands as an example of transformative change.
An evaluation of the basic education sector reform has not only shown that EKOEXCEL elevated the standard of learning in public primary schools but also set the state on a trajectory of rapid growth, aligning it with the educational levels of more developed, higher-income countries.
The EKOEXCEL programme, initiated by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in 2019, has brought about substantial learning gains. These gains are not just numbers; they have tangible effects on policy-relevant metrics, particularly the concept of “learning deprivation.” Learning deprivation refers to the proportion of children who fall below the minimum proficiency level, a vital measure of educational sector success.
The significant reduction in learning deprivation is a testament to the efficacy of EKOEXCEL. In just 80 instructional weeks, EKOEXCEL schools have lowered learning deprivation from 94.7 per cent to 58.5 per cent, marking a remarkable reduction of 36.2 per cent. This statistic is more than just numbers; it represents a seismic shift in the educational landscape of Lagos State.
These results have propelled Lagos State from the category of low-performance income countries to a level comparable to upper-middle-income countries like Mexico. The programme has not just bridged the gap; it has paved the way for rapid educational growth and development.
EKOEXCEL is a testament to visionary leadership, dedication, and innovation in education. It not only enhances academic outcomes but also transforms lives and offers hope to the youth of Lagos State. The impact extends far beyond the classroom and has far-reaching effects on students, their families, and the entire community.
In addition to its impressive academic achievements, EKOEXCEL has been proactive in addressing the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Initiatives like the EKOEXCEL@home programme ensured that education continued even in the face of school closures, a testament to the programme’s unwavering commitment to the educational growth of students.
One of the key achievements of the EKOEXCEL programme is its commitment to professional development for teachers. Over 13,000 teachers have transitioned from analogue to digital teaching, equipping them with the tools and skills needed to provide high-quality education. This shift has not only improved teachers’ effectiveness but has also enhanced the learning experiences of their pupils, including girls.
Misan Thorpe, an education sector analyst, wrote from Lagos.
Furthermore, the programme’s emphasis on gender-responsive teaching techniques has ensured that girls are active participants in the classroom. Teachers are trained to engage both boys and girls equally, making sure that no one is left behind. This has resulted in increased confidence and participation among female pupils, breaking down traditional gender barriers.
The recent performance of pupils from EKOEXCEL schools in the National Common Entrance Examinations further highlights the programme’s commitment to academic excellence. These exceptional results demonstrate not only the high academic standards upheld by EKOEXCEL but also its ability to prepare students for success on a national scale.
EKOEXCEL is built on data; through EKOEXCEL government leaders can see what is happening in every classroom, school and area in real time via a software called Spotlight, making the entire school system transparent.
The use of real-time data monitoring necessitated the need for the Lagos State Government to establish a dedicated control centre for the EKOEXCEL programme called the Situation Room, domiciled at the premises of the Lagos State Basic Education Board.
The EKOEXCEL situation room is the first of its kind in Nigeria as a government partnership programme, offering a round-the-clock dedicated school monitoring control centre.
Governor Sanwo-Olu’s EKOEXCEL is not merely an educational programme; it is a catalyst for social transformation, an engine of economic progress, and a source of inspiration for girls and boys across Lagos State. It showcases the remarkable potential of Nigerian education when visionary leadership, dedicated educators, and an unwavering commitment to equality come together.
In a world that aspires to a brighter future for all, EKOEXCEL serves as a beacon of what can be achieved when education is prioritised and transformed into a powerful tool for change. Lagos State’s journey towards education levels comparable to more developed, higher-income countries is a testament to the transformative potential that exists within the realm of education. As we celebrate the accomplishments of EKOEXCEL, we also celebrate the promise of a brighter future for all the girls and boys of Lagos State.
