A total of 160,000 pupils from both public and private primary schools across Lagos wrote the Lagos State admission test into JSS 1 classes of public junior secondary schools on Saturday 27th July, 2019.
The examination, which was conducted by the Lagos State Examinations Board in conjunction with the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board ( SUBEB), held in 386 centres across the state.
Out of the number, Director, Lagos State Examinations Board, Dr Olufemi Hassan, stated that 40,000 were from private schools.
Board Secretary, Lagos SUBEB, Mrs Kehinde Ajimoti, said the increment in the number of candidates from private schools showed parents’ confidence in public schools.
“My observation is that, a lot of private school pupils sat for the test, which means that parents are beginning to realise that government schools are becoming better.”
“With the number of private school pupils here today, we can say that our standard has improved more than what it used to be in the past and we will not relent in our effort to ensure quality and quantitative education for all,” said Mrs Ajimoti, who monitored the Examination in Mainland, Somolu and Kosofe Local Government Areas.
The Board Secretary added that adequate provision was made for children living with disabilities in some of the centres.
Unlike in the past that candidates did re-sits if they performed abysmally, Hassan pointed out that pupils who fail would not be accepted by public schools but could get into the technical and vocational schools.
“There is no provision for pupils to have a re-sit after this test. The test is a straight-jacketed examination, no plan for re-sit.
“There are facilities for pupils who fail in the technical colleges, vocational centres across the state.
“It is not all the pupils here today that will pass the examination, but for those who will not make, government has already made provision for them to learn a vocation and be self reliant,” he said.
However, for all who pass, Mrs Ajimoti said they would be admitted.
“We have space to accommodate all successful candidates as the new governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu has directed that all our schools should be renovated ahead resumption in September.
“We will continue to expand and improve on all existing facilities,” she said.
