As the 2025/2026 academic session officially kicks off across Lagos State, the state government has initiated a robust and far-reaching monitoring exercise targeting schools below the tertiary level. This strategic initiative, spearheaded by the Office of Education Quality Assurance (OEQA), is designed to ensure strict adherence to the approved resumption dates and uphold the highest educational standards as mandated by state regulations. The exercise, which commenced on Monday, September 15, 2025, reflects the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering a disciplined, high-quality, and conducive learning environment for students across the state.
Adepeju Adeyemi, the spokesperson for the OEQA, issued a detailed statement on Wednesday, outlining the objectives and scope of the monitoring exercise. According to Adeyemi, the initiative is a proactive measure to enforce compliance with the Year 2025/2026 Harmonised Academic Calendar, a carefully structured framework designed to standardize academic activities across public and private schools in Lagos State. The harmonised calendar serves as a critical tool to streamline school operations, ensuring that all institutions operate in sync with the state’s educational goals and timelines.
The monitoring exercise is not merely a routine administrative task but a comprehensive effort to evaluate and enhance the quality of education delivery in Lagos schools. It encompasses a wide range of assessment criteria, including the readiness of schools for the new academic session, the preparedness of teachers, the availability of essential teaching resources, and the overall adherence to educational standards. By conducting these inspections, the Lagos State Government aims to address potential gaps in the education system, promote accountability, and ensure that students receive the quality education they deserve.
A Hands-On Approach to Monitoring
Leading the charge in this ambitious initiative is Remi Abdul, the Coordinating Director of the OEQA. Abdul personally spearheaded the monitoring team’s visits to several schools across the state, including a notable stop at Dolphin Senior High School in Lagos Island. During his visit, Abdul engaged with the school’s principal, Comfort Agunlejika, to assess the institution’s compliance with the state’s educational directives. The team’s inspection at Dolphin Senior High School focused on several key areas critical to the smooth operation of the academic session.
Among the aspects scrutinized were the conduct of pre-resumption meetings, which are essential for setting the tone for the academic term. These meetings typically involve discussions among school administrators and teachers to align on curriculum goals, lesson planning, and student welfare strategies. The monitoring team also examined the availability and quality of lesson notes, which serve as a roadmap for teachers to deliver structured and effective instruction. Additionally, the team reviewed attendance registers and student diaries to ensure proper documentation and accountability in the classroom.
Abdul emphasized that these inspections are not intended to be punitive but rather to support schools in achieving excellence. “Our goal is to ensure that every school in Lagos State is fully prepared to deliver quality education from day one of the academic session,” he stated during his visit to Dolphin Senior High School. “By checking for essential resources and adherence to the academic calendar, we are helping schools create an environment where students can thrive academically and personally.”
Engaging with Students and Teachers
Beyond administrative evaluations, the monitoring exercise also provided an opportunity for direct engagement with students and teachers. At Dolphin Senior High School, Abdul took time to address Senior Secondary School (SSS) 3 students, who are at a critical juncture in their academic journey. As these students prepare for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), Abdul underscored the importance of discipline, focus, and early preparation.
“Your performance this term will play a significant role in determining your readiness for higher education and your success in the WASSCE,” Abdul told the students. “This is a pivotal moment in your academic journey. I urge you to read diligently, stay focused, and avoid distractions such as skipping classes. Start preparing for your examinations now, and you will see the results of your hard work.”
Abdul’s message resonated with the students, many of whom are keenly aware of the stakes involved in their final year of secondary education. The WASSCE, a standardized examination administered by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), is a critical milestone for Nigerian students. Success in this examination opens doors to tertiary education and future career opportunities. By addressing the students directly, Abdul aimed to inspire a sense of responsibility and motivation, encouraging them to take ownership of their academic success.
The monitoring team also extended words of encouragement to the teachers, recognizing their pivotal role in shaping the future of the students. Abdul urged educators to remain dedicated to their profession and to deliver instruction with passion and precision. “Teachers are the backbone of our education system,” he noted. “Your commitment to delivering quality education is what drives student success. We encourage you to continue preparing thoroughly, engaging your students, and fostering a love for learning.”
The Harmonised Academic Calendar: A Blueprint for Success
Central to the monitoring exercise is the Year 2025/2026 Harmonised Academic Calendar, which serves as the guiding framework for all schools in Lagos State. This calendar outlines key dates and activities for the academic year, ensuring uniformity and coherence across the state’s education system. According to the calendar, the first term of the 2025/2026 academic session is divided into two halves, with specific periods allocated for teaching, breaks, and other school activities.
The first half of the term runs from September 15 to October 31, 2025, providing approximately seven weeks of intensive academic engagement. This period is followed by a brief break, allowing students and teachers to recharge before resuming for the second half of the term, which spans from November 10 to December 19, 2025. During this time, schools are expected to conduct Open Days, where parents and guardians can interact with teachers and discuss their children’s progress. These events are critical for fostering collaboration between schools and families, ensuring a holistic approach to student development.
The harmonised calendar also includes provisions for holidays and other non-academic activities, carefully balancing academic rigor with opportunities for rest and recreation. By adhering to this structured timeline, schools can maintain consistency in their operations, avoid disruptions, and ensure that students cover the necessary curriculum within the stipulated time frame.
The Broader Context: Lagos State’s Commitment to Education
The monitoring exercise is part of a broader strategy by the Lagos State Government to elevate the standard of education in the state. Lagos, often referred to as Nigeria’s economic and cultural hub, is home to millions of students across thousands of public and private schools. The state’s education sector is a critical component of its development agenda, as it seeks to produce a skilled and knowledgeable workforce capable of driving economic growth and innovation.
In recent years, the Lagos State Government has implemented several initiatives to strengthen its education system. These include investments in infrastructure, teacher training programs, and the integration of technology into classrooms. The OEQA, established to oversee quality assurance in education, plays a pivotal role in ensuring that these initiatives translate into tangible outcomes for students.
The current monitoring exercise builds on these efforts, reflecting the government’s proactive approach to addressing challenges in the education sector. By conducting regular inspections, the OEQA aims to identify areas where schools may require additional support, whether in terms of resources, training, or policy guidance. This data-driven approach allows the government to make informed decisions and allocate resources effectively, ensuring that no school or student is left behind.
Challenges and Opportunities in the Education Sector
While the monitoring exercise represents a significant step forward, it also highlights some of the challenges facing the education sector in Lagos State. Overcrowded classrooms, inadequate infrastructure, and disparities between public and private schools are ongoing issues that require sustained attention. Additionally, the pressure on students to perform well in high-stakes examinations like the WASSCE can create stress and anxiety, underscoring the need for holistic support systems that address both academic and emotional well-being.
However, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation and reform. The Lagos State Government has already taken steps to address some of these issues, such as the introduction of digital learning platforms and partnerships with private organizations to enhance educational access. The monitoring exercise itself is a testament to the government’s willingness to engage directly with schools, listen to their concerns, and provide targeted interventions where necessary.
For instance, the emphasis on pre-resumption meetings and lesson planning highlights the importance of teacher preparedness, which is critical for effective instruction. By ensuring that teachers have access to the tools and training they need, the government can empower educators to deliver high-quality lessons that engage and inspire students. Similarly, the focus on student attendance and discipline underscores the need for a structured and supportive learning environment, where students feel motivated to excel.
The Role of Stakeholders in Ensuring Success
The success of the monitoring exercise and the broader goal of improving education in Lagos State depend on the collaboration of multiple stakeholders, including school administrators, teachers, parents, and students themselves. School administrators play a crucial role in ensuring that their institutions comply with state regulations and maintain high standards of operation. Principals like Comfort Agunlejika of Dolphin Senior High School are at the forefront of implementing these standards, working closely with their staff to create a positive and productive learning environment.
Teachers, as the primary facilitators of learning, are tasked with translating the curriculum into meaningful educational experiences. Their ability to engage students, adapt to diverse learning needs, and maintain professional standards is essential to the success of the academic session. The encouragement from Abdul and the OEQA serves as a reminder of the critical role teachers play and the need for ongoing support to help them excel in their profession.
Parents and guardians also have a vital role to play, particularly during Open Days and other school activities. By actively participating in their children’s education, parents can reinforce the lessons learned in the classroom and provide the emotional support students need to succeed. The harmonised calendar’s inclusion of Open Days reflects the government’s recognition of the importance of parental involvement in education.
Finally, students themselves are at the heart of the education system. Their commitment to their studies, adherence to school rules, and proactive preparation for examinations like the WASSCE will ultimately determine their success. The motivational words from Abdul during his visit to Dolphin Senior High School serve as a call to action for students to take their education seriously and seize the opportunities available to them.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for Educational Excellence
As the monitoring exercise continues across Lagos State, the OEQA remains committed to ensuring that all schools meet the educational standards mandated by law. The exercise is expected to cover a wide range of schools, from urban centers like Lagos Island to more remote areas, ensuring that no institution is overlooked. By maintaining a consistent and thorough approach to monitoring, the government aims to create a culture of accountability and excellence in the education sector.
The 2025/2026 academic session represents a new chapter in Lagos State’s journey toward educational excellence. With the harmonised calendar as a guide and the OEQA’s monitoring exercise as a catalyst, the state is well-positioned to achieve its vision of providing quality education for all. By addressing challenges, supporting stakeholders, and fostering a collaborative approach, Lagos State is laying the foundation for a brighter future for its students and the broader society.
In conclusion, the Lagos State Government’s monitoring exercise is a testament to its dedication to improving education and ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed. As the academic year progresses, the efforts of the OEQA, school administrators, teachers, parents, and students will collectively shape the outcomes of this initiative. With continued commitment and collaboration, Lagos State can set a standard for educational excellence that serves as a model for other regions in Nigeria and beyond.
