The Lagos State Government said it has recorded significant improvement in mathematics performance among public school students, attributing the progress to sustained investment in education, strategic partnerships and the promotion of academic excellence.

The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Ali-Balogun, disclosed this at the Darsel State Award Mathematics Competition held at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja.

He was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Abisola Dokunmu-Adegbite.

Ali-Balogun said a comparison of students’ mathematics performance between 2024 and 2025 showed remarkable progress, indicating that government interventions in the education sector were yielding results. “Rewarding academic excellence is already paying off, with a clear difference in students’ mathematics performance. I can assure you that mathematics education in Lagos will continue to improve,” he said.

The Commissioner reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding access to quality education and partnering with credible organisations to strengthen teaching and learning, adding that every partnership proposal is assessed on its merit and measurable benefit to students.

“Our doors remain open for genuine collaboration in education,” he said, urging students not to give up and thanking teachers for their dedication.

The commissioner highlighted the impact of the Darsel Mathematics App, a technology-driven learning platform designed to bridge learning gaps and stimulate students’ interest in mathematics across the state’s six education districts. Students in the Junior Secondary School (JSS3) category were recognised for their outstanding performance and consistent use of the app.

Chief Executive Officer of Sapphire Exploit 21st Century Skills, Dr Tolu Alalade, said the platform has transformed mathematics learning in Lagos public schools. He said students solved about 8.7 million mathematics questions correctly during the current academic session, describing it as a major milestone in improving learning outcomes, and adding that mathematics builds critical thinking and problem-solving skills beyond the classroom.