Fellows of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) have commissioned a solar-powered digital learning hub and a renovated library at Alapere Community Senior High School, Kosofe, as part of a community impact project designed to enhance digital literacy and improve learning outcomes among public school students.
The initiative, implemented under Team U.P.G.R.A.D.E. (Unlocking Potential through Growth, Research and Applied Digital Education), is themed “Bridging the Digital Divide: Empowering for Global Competitiveness.” It transformed an underutilised library into a modern learning centre featuring an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) laboratory, a refurbished library, and a structured Book Reading Club.
The two-day commissioning programme included the official unveiling of the facility, a debate competition for students, a tree-planting exercise promoting environmental sustainability, and a teachers’ conference focused on digital teaching skills and learner-centred instructional methods.
To address the digital skills gap among students in public schools, the facility is powered by a solar inverter system to ensure uninterrupted learning. It is equipped with laptops preloaded with offline Computer-Based Testing (CBT) simulation software, allowing students to develop practical computer skills and prepare for national examinations without internet access.
The project is expected to benefit between 150 and 300 students annually during its pilot phase, with priority given to candidates preparing for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Executive Secretary of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, Mrs. Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade, praised the Fellows for delivering a sustainable intervention that aligns with the Academy’s vision of developing young leaders capable of solving societal challenges.
She noted that the project reflects the Academy’s commitment to practical leadership, innovation, and service, adding that impactful leadership is measured by initiatives that bring lasting benefits to communities.
Team Lead, Titilope Anifowoshe, said the project was inspired by a desire to give back to society through solutions that would endure beyond the Fellowship programme.
According to her, the intervention demonstrates the positive impact that can be achieved when young people are entrusted with meaningful responsibilities. She also appreciated Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for supporting leadership development initiatives and promoting a culture of service and impact.
The event attracted government officials, education stakeholders, community leaders, school administrators, and students. Among those in attendance were the General Manager of Lagos State Ferry Services, Mr. Abdulbaq Ladi Balogun, representatives of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, officials from Education District II, and traditional leaders.
Former Executive Chairman of Agboyi-Ketu Local Council Development Area, Mayor Dele Osinowo, commended the quality and impact of the project and pledged support to expand the facility’s reach and capacity.
Also speaking, the Principal of Alapere Community Senior High School, Mrs. Ogbeiwi Margaret, described the ICT hub and renovated library as valuable additions to the school's learning environment and assured stakeholders that the facilities would be properly maintained.
To ensure long-term sustainability, the Fellows established a maintenance framework involving the Parent-Teacher Association, alumni associations, and relevant education authorities to oversee the management and preservation of the facilities.