The Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman has emphasised his desire that Nigerian teachers receive their rewards not only in heaven but also on earth.
Mamman who disclosed this during a press conference heralding the commemoration of the 2024 World Teachers Day in Abuja, stated that teachers have contributed immensely to changes in the world and should be rewarded for their efforts.
The minister who was represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Nasir Sani-Gwarzo, urged Nigerian teachers to be resilient in the face of adversity as they will surely be recognised with time.
“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 teacher’s 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,” he said.
He also urged the teachers to look beyond the current circumstances and work towards embracing contemporary teaching methods, technology and digital transformation.
He noted that the government held the teachers in high esteem, which led to the establishment of more universities of education and the introducing of annual rewards for teachers.
“The government holds the teaching profession in very high esteem, having established more specialised universities of education and implemented policies of the bursary in Nigerian universities for students. The beneficiaries of these awards in the 2022 academic year are 3,317. The number is even larger in 2024.
“Additionally, the government, through the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), entered into a bilateral agreement on chaired mobility for ease of international engagements. Teachers’ welfare remains a priority for labour employers despite the economic and security challenges in Nigeria.
“While we acknowledge the need for good working conditions and environment, we hope that all stakeholders will continue to listen to the voices of our teachers and the Nigerian Union of Teachers. Many teachers work under very hard conditions, yet they remain dedicated to their duties in the interest of our children,” he said.
World Teachers Day is celebrated annually on October 5. The theme for this year is “Valuing Teachers’ Voices: Towards a New Social Contract for Education”.