Slum2School remodels three Makoko public schools, improves facilities

Slum2School Africa has commissioned the first phase of its Lagos Model Primary School Project in Makoko, following the renovation and upgrading of facilities at three public primary schools in the community.

The project, implemented in partnership with the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board and the state Ministry of Education, is aimed at creating more conducive learning environments for children in the waterfront community.

The first phase, unveiled at Aiyetoro African Primary School, includes upgraded classrooms, sanitation facilities, recreational areas, technology infrastructure and learning resources. Adekunle Anglican Primary School and Makoko Anglican Primary School, located within the same compound, also benefited from the intervention.

Among the facilities provided or upgraded are early childhood education classrooms, primary classrooms, a library, digital computer room, STEM and Innovation Lab, sick bay, music room and Enterprise Development Centre/Home Economics room.

The intervention also includes a solar-powered water borehole, renovated toilets, a football pitch, multipurpose courts for basketball, volleyball and lawn tennis, improved play areas and interlocked outdoor spaces to support pupils’ learning and wellbeing.

Slum2School said 10 existing nursery and primary classrooms at Aiyetoro African Primary School were renovated and adapted into age-appropriate learning spaces, while another 12 primary classrooms were refurbished as part of the project.

Speaking at the commissioning, the University of Lagos Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, said the initiative demonstrated the standard public schools could aspire to, adding that scaling similar interventions could contribute to improved education quality and better preparation of pupils as they progress through the education system.

The Executive Director of Slum2School Africa, Orondaam Otto, said the project went beyond renovating school buildings, as it sought to improve children’s experiences in public schools through investment in infrastructure, learning and community participation. He added that the Makoko project was designed as a model that could be adapted to other public schools, with its long-term impact expected to be reflected in pupils’ learning outcomes, digital skills, creativity, health and broader educational opportunities.