The Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, in collaboration with Global Education Media Limited, has organised a one-day conference for Public Affairs Officers (PAOs) across the education sector to enhance strategic communication and public engagement.
The conference, held at NECA House in Ikeja, was themed, “Strategic Communication: Advancing the Lagos Education Agenda through Effective Public Affairs Engagement.” It brought together communication professionals and key stakeholders to explore innovative approaches to promoting government policies, programmes and achievements within the education sector.
Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Abisola Dokunmu-Adegbite, highlighted the critical role of Public Affairs Officers in shaping public perception, promoting transparency and supporting the successful implementation of the Lagos Education Agenda.
She urged participants to embrace professionalism, innovation and collaboration in carrying out their responsibilities, stressing that effective communication remains essential to achieving government objectives in the education sector.
Dokunmu-Adegbite also encouraged Public Affairs Officers to work as a team, remain proactive and stay committed to delivering positive outcomes.
According to her, education remains the third pillar of the state's THEMES Plus Agenda and serves as a foundation for the success of other developmental priorities.
In his goodwill message, the Director of Public Affairs, Lagos State Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mr. Adesegun Ogundeji, emphasised the importance of collaboration among government communication professionals.
He advised participants to effectively utilise both digital and traditional media platforms while building strong relationships with media organisations and developing skills in crisis communication and management.
Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of Global Education Media Limited and Project Director of Lagos Schools Online, Mr. Durotimi Adeboye, commended the Ministry for its support and reiterated the importance of partnerships in addressing educational challenges.
He noted that stakeholders must work together to ensure access to quality education for every child in Lagos State.
The conference featured presentations from communication and education experts, including Professor Tunde Musbau Akanni of Lagos State University, who spoke on strengthening collaboration among agencies under the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education.
Another presentation was delivered by Mr. Victor Banjo of Lagos Business School Executive Education, who focused on enhancing participants’ capacity for strategic, proactive and collaborative communication. He also highlighted emerging trends in strategic communication, reputation management and stakeholder engagement within the public sector.
A major highlight of the event was an interactive session where Public Affairs Officers shared their experiences, challenges and expectations. Participants identified the need for greater institutional support to strengthen public affairs practice and improve communication outcomes across the education sector.
The conference reinforced the Lagos State Government’s commitment to strengthening communication strategies and promoting effective public engagement in support of ongoing educational reforms and development initiatives.