Teachers Day: Delta Governor Urges Continuous Skill Upgrade for Teachers
ASABA/Nigeria: The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has called on teachers to consistently enhance their knowledge and skills to keep up with evolving educational demands. He made this statement during the 2024 World Teachers’ Day celebration held on Saturday in Asaba, where he was represented by the Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme.
Addressing the audience, Governor Oborevwori emphasised the indispensable role of teachers in shaping the nation. “Teachers and educationists must continuously upgrade their knowledge and teaching skills and adapt to changing situations very quickly,” he stated. “The role of the teacher in nation-building cannot be overemphasised. A nation is built by its citizens, and citizens are taught, trained, and moulded by teachers.”
He further highlighted the critical responsibility of teachers in imparting knowledge, instilling values, and equipping students with the necessary skills to contribute meaningfully to society. Reflecting on the significance of the annual event, Oborevwori noted, “Since 1994, when UNESCO set aside October 5 as World Teachers’ Day, the occasion has allowed governments, parents, and stakeholders to appreciate the vital contributions of teachers.”
The governor also pointed out the significant impact of education on national development, attributing 65% of a nation’s progress to human resources. He stressed that teachers are pivotal in nurturing these resources, further commending the harmonious relationship between the state government and the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT).
Oborevwori urged that the focus should not solely be on funding, remuneration, and welfare issues but also on the pursuit of excellence in teaching and learning. “I believe this is the greatest need facing our educational system today,” he added.
The National President of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Comrade Audu Amba, represented by Comrade Ikechukwu Orobo, echoed similar sentiments, emphasising the importance of valuing teachers’ voices in shaping education and society. He also urged state governors to implement the new retirement age for teachers.
Comrade Titus Okotie, the Chairman of NUT, Delta State Wing, reaffirmed the union’s commitment to collaborating with the state government on policies that would transform the educational sector. He praised the state for its strides in education, particularly the recruitment of primary school teachers and timely promotions.
In his goodwill message, the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Union (NLC), Delta State, Comrade Goodluck Ofobruku, appealed to both federal and state governments to improve teachers’ welfare by offering higher salaries.
Additionally, the Rector of Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, Prof. Emmanuel Biri, commended the state government for establishing three new universities, providing greater opportunities for Deltans to access tertiary education, thereby fostering further growth.
The 2024 World Teachers’ Day celebration in Asaba featured cultural performances and a parade by teachers from all 25 local government areas of Delta State, reflecting the vibrancy and unity of the state’s educational community.
