The Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board (LASTVEB) has reiterated its resolve to establish itself as the national leader in providing excellent and equitable technical and vocational training in Nigeria.
Speaking at the annual management retreat themed “Technical and Vocational Training: Key to Sustainable Development,” held on Thursday at Novatel Hotel, Lekki, Lagos, the Executive Secretary of LASTVEB, Ms Moronke Azeez, urged participants to remain focused and dedicated to achieving the agency’s ambitious goals.
Reflecting on the progress made, Azeez noted that LASTVEB had advanced significantly from a time when technical colleges were dismissed as mere “dumpsites for failures.”
She commended the dedication of the agency’s management team, encouraging them to sustain their efforts in fostering a culture of excellence in technical and vocational education.
“The Lagos State Government, through LASTVEB, is dedicated to delivering industry-responsible and gender-inclusive technical education that not only creates employment opportunities but also facilitates self-employment,” she said.
LASTVEB
Azeez revealed that the agency had developed strategic work plans to further its mission, emphasising the importance of teamwork and commitment in achieving the vision of becoming a credible leader in the field.
She expressed gratitude to long-serving staff members for their invaluable contributions to the agency’s transformation and urged them not to relent in their efforts.
She remarked, “We continue to receive positive feedback about our graduates excelling, whether as self-employed individuals or in various organisations. Recently, four of our technical colleges were selected as part of the Federal Government’s CNG Conversion Centres. This is a significant milestone and proof that we are moving forward.”
Participants at the retreat shared testimonials about the remarkable improvements witnessed in recent years, including enhanced learning environments, regular professional training, and increased partnerships with organisations and state governments.
One of the retreat’s facilitators, Mr Abiodun Bamgboye, a former Permanent Secretary, delivered a paper on leadership and service excellence.
He encouraged the participants to prioritise effective communication with staff and seek regular feedback.
While acknowledging potential political interference, Bamgboye advised attendees to remain proactive, embrace creativity, and avoid resisting change, warning that resistance to change could hinder progress.
The retreat also featured various sessions designed to equip participants with the skills and insights needed to advance LASTVEB’s vision of excellence in technical and vocational education.