By Grace Udofia
Nigeria’s President, Muhamadu Buhari has said his administration will implement targets to boost teacher’s welfare by January 2022.
The President while addressing teachers on Tuesday in Abuja on the event of the 2021 World Teacher’s Day, commended teachers and education officers who according to him, kept faith with the profession over the years despite the obvious challenges.
“The revitalization and re-positioning of teachers is already on course and will significantly impact on relevant issues, pre-service training, remuneration, in-service training, retirement, special allowances and assistance to own low-cost houses.
“There will be more advocacy and consensus building with relevant stakeholders including state governments and others to realize all the targets that will re-position the 21st century teacher in Nigeria.
“I assure you that the implementation of most of the targets in the repositioning of teachers will be achieved by January 2022. I want you all to know that teachers’ welfare is paramount in the scheme of things and negotiations are ongoing to ensure that your salary is prioritized
“Ladies and gentlemen, as you celebrate the 2021 WTD, always remember that to whom much is given, much is expected. Teachers in Nigeria and NUT are therefore implored to reflect on the past and reciprocate this landmark gesture by explicitly committing to the provision of excellent service delivery. This will complement our efforts to provide and sustain quality education for all.
“I know that for Teachers to effectively be at the Heart of Education Recovery, there is need for continuous re-tooling. Teachers and all those connected with teaching and learning will henceforth undergo annual training on modern techniques of teaching and learning.
“This will include digital Literacy trainings in pedagogy, Information and Communication Technology and others. Education parastatals like NTI, TRCN, CPN, NUC, NCCE, UBEC, PTDF, TETFund, and other non-governmental organizations will partner with the government to achieve this feat.
“Also, the re-introduction of Bursary awards to Education students in the Universities and Colleges of Education with the assurance of automatic employment upon graduation would encourage more students to take up offer courses in Education. “Education parastatals; UBEC, TETFund, and PTDF would partner with government to commit funds to be managed by the Federal Scholarship Board who has the mandate to disburse funds to beneficiaries,” he added.
