LASUBEB Champions Youth Agripreneurship for Food Security

 The Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB) recently hosted a vibrant Agricultural Exhibition. This event served as the pinnacle of the Agricultural Education Training Programme (AETP), designed to showcase the tangible results of integrating farming into the primary school curriculum. By displaying various farm produce and seedlings, the board demonstrated how theoretical knowledge is being successfully translated into practical, hands-on skills for young learners.

Supported by funding from the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), the programme has already reached approximately 170 public primary schools across Lagos State. This initiative is a core part of a broader strategy to strengthen basic education through skill-based learning. By bringing agriculture to the forefront of primary education, the state aims to ensure that the next generation is equipped with the tools necessary for self-reliance and productivity.

​During the event, LASUBEB Executive Chairman, Dr. Hakeem Shittu, emphasized that agriculture is a vital driver for economic growth and a necessary solution to food scarcity. He noted that the programme goes far beyond simple cultivation; it is an intentional effort to shift the mindsets of pupils. By introducing children to the agricultural value chain early on, the state is actively cultivating "agripreneurs" who will eventually support the vision of a 21st-century economy.

​Dr. Shittu also extended his gratitude to UBEC and Governor Sanwo-Olu for their unwavering support in making the AETP a reality. He reaffirmed the board's commitment to expanding the programme, ensuring that more schools benefit from these innovative farming techniques. The goal remains to move learning outside the traditional classroom setting and into the fields where innovation and agribusiness fundamentals can be practiced.

Echoing these sentiments, Board Member Dr. Saheed Ibikunle highlighted that the initiative aligns perfectly with the Lagos State Government’s agenda for food sufficiency and economic diversification. He pointed out that education-driven agriculture is a cornerstone for building local food production and economic resilience. Ultimately, the exhibition served as a testament to how the state is securing a sustainable future by empowering its youngest citizens.