The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, at an interactive session yesterday, met with the first set of finalists for the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy. The academy, which officially commences in January 2023, is a leadership and mentorship programme of the State Government, with the vision to develop tomorrow leaders today for public service and governance in Africa.
The Governor was accompanied by the Honourable Commissioner for Establishment, Training and Pension, Ajibola Ponnle, the Honourable Commissioner of Education, Folashade Adefisayo and newly appointed Executive Secretary for the academy, Mrs. Folasade Coker
During the engaging interactive session, the Governor discussed with the finalists to get more insight on their professional journey and some of the reasons why they decided to participate in the program. The academy received over 3,000 applications and only 36 candidates eventually emerged after a thorough selection process in line with global best practices. The screening process included a computer based test and a full day assessment centre which included various exercises such as simulation role plays, competency based interviews and presentations, based on a case study developed and customised for Lagos State.
The academy was initiated to equip the fellows with the requisite skills to influence the public service and instil the ethics and values of purposeful leadership not only through direct leadership coaching, mentoring and on-the-job experience, but a customised public leadership training programe developed in conjuction with Lagos Business School, Oxford University and other notable leadership experts in the country. The one-year non-partisan and meritocratic fellowship will offer first-hand experience in the process of governance. Fellows will be assigned to and mentored by the Executive Cabinet members and other notable private and public sector leaders.