By Osita Biose
Teachers are crucial in shaping the future of any nation. They’re the backbone of the education system, and their impact goes beyond just academics. They are role models, mentors and influencers in shaping the values and principles of future leaders.
In Delta state there is the urgent need to continue to create enabling environment for teachers in the state to also continue to put in their best in the noble profession of teaching.
Unfortunately, amidst retirement of many teachers in the state and the passing on of many more, some others have left the country in search of greener pastures while many are also considering quiting the profession. This has led to a significant drawback in the education system, and affecting the quality of education and the overall development of the state.
The recent employment of over 3,000 teachers by the state government is a step in the right direction, but not enough. There is a pressing need for more teachers in the state, especially in the primary and secondary schools.
One possible solution is to transfer holders of university degrees, currently teaching in primary schools, to secondary schools in the state. This would not only fill the gap but would provide opportunities for career advancement and growth among such teacher who have remained stagnated, teaching in primary schools.
It is commendable that acting on the policy nerve of the state government, Dr. Kingsley Ashibogwu, Commissioner for Primary Education in the state, has shown some levels of commitment to address the lingering issue. it is hoped that his efforts would yield positive results soon.
To further support teachers and improve the education system, the state government could consider implementing annual awards of excellence for teachers, which could be in the form of cash, gifts, or promotions. This would motivate teachers and boost morale, leading to improved job satisfaction, retention, and productivity.
The past practice of former Governor Okowa’s incentives, such as gift of cars, cash and promotions, could be reintroduced and expanded to include training and retraining programmes within and outside the country.
Removing stagnation and introducing opportunities for growth could help retain talented teachers, just as constantly addressing the teacher-pupil/student ratio could lead to more effective teaching and learning, better student performances, and reduced workload for teachers.
Incentives for teachers in rural and riverine areas to motivate them could include inconvenience, housing and transportation allowances and access to professional development opportunities.
Again, renovating decrepit classrooms and addressing infrastructural decay as well as providing perimeter fences of the schools could enhance the learning environment, increase student enrollment and retention, and support teachers’ well-being and productivity.
There is more to gain from strengthening Parents-Teachers Associations (PTAs) in fostering community engagement and participation, school governance and accountability and student development and welfare, just as increasing subventions to the schools and making them regular could also help such schools in functioning effectively.
Recently, Delta state teachers have made headlines with their international awards, a testament to their dedication and hard work. Kudos to those outstanding educators ! Their achievement is a reflection of the state’s commitment to education and the welfare of its teachers, but there is the need to strengthen such commitment.
President Julius Nyerere of blessed memory once said, “No nation or state can rise above the quality of its teachers.” This statement underscores the importance of investing on teachers who are the backbone of any education system. After all, the statement, “no teacher, no nation”, is a stark reality, considering the role of teachers in the moulding of others in other professions.
Also speaking recently, Dr Ashibogwu, representative of Governor Oborevwori in an occasion, charged teachers to embrace retraining in ICT to stay relevant in the global trend. This call is timely, as technology continues to shape the world. By equipping them with ICT skills, teachers could enhance their teaching methods, making learning more engaging and effective.
The Bible says, “Of all the professions, teaching is the oldest.” (Matthew 23:8-10). It calls for a unified effort to build a brighter future for Delta State through a repositioning and reinvigoration of the teaching profession in the state.