STEAM PROGRAMME: Shifting Lagos From Consumption-Based To A Productive , Innovation-driven Economy

The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming the State from a consumption-driven economy into a productive, innovation-led one through the adoption of the Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) programme. This vision was further demonstrated during the second edition of the Innovate Eko STEAM Day held at the Education Resource Centre, Ikeja. Organised by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant on Basic and Secondary Education, the sensitisation programme focused on promoting creativity, critical thinking, and practical skill acquisition among students.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, highlighted the crucial role of collaboration, accessibility, educator support, and career guidance in driving STEAM adoption across Lagos. He noted that the State has prioritised recruiting science-oriented teachers in recent years to strengthen the foundation of scientific learning. Alli-Balogun emphasised that Lagos is not only improving teaching and learning outcomes but also nurturing students who are confident, courageous, and able to shape their career paths early.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Abisola Dokunmu-Adegbite, shared updates on the State’s achievements in STEAM education. She revealed that participating schools have recorded a 25% increase in STEAM subject enrolment, with Lagos students consistently emerging top in national competitions such as the National Engineers and Scientists Competition. She also noted that in the 2024 High State Assessment, 70% of primary school girls tracked scored 70% and above in STEAM-related subjects, demonstrating significant progress in gender inclusion.

Mrs. Dokunmu-Adegbite further disclosed that since 2021, Lagos State has developed over a hundred student innovations, including prototypes in green energy and AI-powered solutions. About 30% of these have progressed to the patent stage through funding provided by the Lagos State Research and Innovation Council. She explained that these achievements are evidence that Lagos youth are being equipped to tackle global challenges such as climate change and the digital revolution, thanks to enquiry-based learning and support for student-led solutions targeting urban sustainability and digital inclusion.

Earlier, the Senior Special Assistant on Basic and Secondary Education and convener of the programme, Mr. Opeyemi Eniola, reinforced the State’s commitment to preparing children for the future by inspiring creativity and problem-solving through STEAM. With the theme “Recycle, Rethink and Innovate,” the programme featured panel discussions that encouraged students to explore recycling, upcycling, and innovative scientific ideas. The event ultimately showcased the ingenuity of Lagos students and highlighted the impact of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda in prioritising education and technology as drivers of sustainable development.