In a significant announcement at the 2023 World Teachers’ Day celebration held at Eagle Square in Abuja, President Bola Tinubu promised to invest in modernizing Nigeria’s educational infrastructure. Represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu emphasized the importance of education as a cornerstone for a prosperous future.*
President Tinubu’s speech highlighted his administration’s commitment to reforming the education sector to align with global best practices. He expressed his dedication to building a society where teachers receive their well-deserved recognition during their lifetime, not just in the afterlife.
“We are going to invest in modernizing our educational infrastructure and make sure that we are in step with the world on the road to the future,” stated Tinubu. “Our commitment to actualizing our education reforms is to drive the emergence and sustenance of a system that recognizes that education is the mother of new ideas and groundbreaking discoveries.”
Tinubu stressed the importance of well-trained educators in building a nation that thinks critically and thrives in an interconnected world. He emphasized the significance of education in addressing global challenges such as climate change, poverty, and healthcare and fostering international cooperation.
The President acknowledged that the government cannot achieve its goals without motivated teachers. He expressed his commitment to improving teachers’ working conditions and recognition throughout the year, not just on World Teachers’ Day.
Tinubu recognized that teachers play multifaceted roles as educators, mentors, guides, and role models who shape the character and aspirations of children. He emphasized that a nation’s satisfaction is reflected in the well-being of its teachers.
Tinubu addressed the challenges faced by educators, including overcrowded classrooms, limited resources, and insufficient professional development opportunities. He pledged to transform these circumstances and committed to enhancing the working conditions for teachers in collaboration with state governments and private school proprietors.
One notable policy initiative mentioned by Tinubu is the Harmonized Retirement Age of Teachers in Nigeria Act, 2022. This act allows dedicated teachers to continue their service for up to 40 years or until age 65, whichever comes first. The goal is to retain experienced educators in the system and increase the number of educators in schools.
Tinubu encouraged teachers to take advantage of this policy but noted that eligibility is not automatic. To benefit from this act, teachers must possess contemporary teaching skills, including proficiency in information technology. Tinubu directed the Ministers of Education to collaborate with the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation to revise existing guidelines to ensure that teachers returning to the classroom are equipped with the latest teaching techniques and skills, especially in information technology.
In conclusion, President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to modernizing Nigeria’s educational infrastructure and improving the conditions for teachers reflects a dedication to fostering a brighter future for the nation’s youth. The announced policy initiatives aim to revitalize the education sector, ensuring it remains at the forefront of global advancements.