The Nigerian Government has assured teachers of improved welfare and working conditions, as part of its commitment to supporting the teaching profession.
This was disclosed by the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, in preparation for this year’s World Teachers’ Day celebration.
Mamman highlighted the government’s efforts, including bursary awards to 3,317 National Certificate in Education (NCE) students in 2022, with an increase in the number of recipients this year.
Speaking on behalf of the minister, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Dr. Nasir Sani-Gwarzo, acknowledged the dedication of teachers working under challenging conditions. He stressed that these teachers deserve recognition for their invaluable contribution to shaping Nigerian children’s futures.
Mamman praised teachers for their role in human capital development, emphasising that they have made a significant impact globally by building character and skills in their students.
The Education minister also commended the efforts of stakeholders and international partners in supporting the teaching profession.
He encouraged teachers to adopt modern teaching methods, conduct research, and embrace digital transformation to meet current educational challenges.
“We are aware that the voices of our teachers have contributed immensely to changes in the world. They have been building men and women and making their attributes worthwhile. They are contributing much more to human capital development.
“Governments at all levels are doing all it takes to enhance teachers’ professionalism for nation-building and national development.
“I sincerely commend the contribution of all stakeholders, including international development partners, for their support in mainstreaming our teachers. They have been performing well at home and abroad. Teachers, like other professionals, carry out their duties with passion.
“Even when faced with challenges, they demonstrate resilience and remain dedicated to their responsibilities.
“Therefore, I urge all teachers to look beyond current circumstances and respond to the challenges of adopting contemporary teaching methods, conducting research and embracing technology and digital transformation.
“The government holds the teaching profession in very high esteem, having established more specialised universities of education and implemented policies of bursary in Nigerian universities for students…
“Additionally, the government, through the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), entered into a bilateral agreement on shared mobility for ease of international engagements. Teachers’ welfare remains a priority for the employers of labour, despite the economic and security challenges in Nigeria,” Mamman said.
The President of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Audu Amba, expressed the union’s support for the government’s initiatives aimed at improving teacher welfare and professionalism.
Amba stressed that well-trained and supported teachers would contribute significantly to national development, and urged everyone to celebrate teachers for their crucial role in society.