The Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has organised a sensitisation programme on effective waste management and fire safety for students and teachers of public secondary schools across the state.
Eko Hot News reports that the programme, held at the Adeyemi-Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja, brought together students and teachers to build awareness on environmental sustainability, proper waste disposal, recycling, and fire prevention measures.
The sensitisation featured practical demonstrations and presentations by the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Services, focusing on waste sorting, use of fire extinguishers, and emergency response procedures.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr Jamiu Ali-Balogun, stressed the importance of collective responsibility in achieving a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable environment.
He explained that the initiative was designed to empower students as Safety Ambassadors who would promote good environmental practices and fire safety awareness in their schools and communities.
The Commissioner commended students for embracing proactive safety measures, noting that simple habits such as switching off electrical appliances could significantly reduce fire risks and protect lives and property.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs Abisola Dokunmu-Adegbite, described a clean and safe school environment as essential for effective teaching and meaningful learning.
She warned that poor waste management and negligence could lead to unhealthy environments, disease outbreaks, and environmental degradation, urging students and teachers to take responsibility for their surroundings.
Participants received hands-on training on waste sorting, recycling techniques, identifying fire hazards, and maintaining safety in classrooms, hostels, laboratories, and school premises.
Delivering a presentation, the Director and Head of LAWMA Academy, Mrs Bola Adewunmi, introduced the concept of the circular economy and outlined the “7Rs” of waste management, including Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repair, Refurbish, Rethink, and Recover.
A fire safety session led by Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Mr Babatunde Afoju, educated participants on fire prevention and emergency response, emphasising that fire is beneficial only when properly controlled.
The programme concluded with a call for students and teachers to act as change agents by applying and sharing the knowledge gained.
