The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) Ikorodu Branch joined educators worldwide in commemorating World Teachers’ Day at the NUT (Teachers House) Secretariat in Ikorodu on the 5th of October 2024.
The event, themed “Value Teacher Voices: Towards a New Social Contract for Education,” underscored the critical role of teachers in shaping the future of education and the urgent need to include educators in policy-making processes.
World Teachers’ Day is celebrated annually to honour educators for their dedication and contributions to the academic and personal development of students.
This year’s theme emphasized the importance of amplifying teachers’ voices in shaping education reforms and creating a supportive environment for effective teaching.
The event saw the attendance of prominent figures, including His Royal Majesty Oba Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo Kingdom, Senator Mukhail Abiru, Hon. Bolowotan Adewale, former Lagos Acting Commissioner, Hon. Akinsola Adebimpe, Olori Tolulope Titilayo of Alagura, Dr. Saheed Ibikunle, a permanent board member of SUBEB, and Alhaji Amusa Taiwo, Proprietor of Homat Group of Schools.
Additionally, headteachers, principals, and educational leaders graced the occasion, reflecting the widespread recognition of teachers’ essential contributions.
Comrade Fakolade Oluwafemi Oluwaseun JP, Chairman of NUT Ikorodu Branch, expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the support the union had received over the years.
He humbly acknowledged that his leadership was guided by grace, which enabled him to work with an exceptional executive team.
Fakolade highlighted the milestones achieved during his eight-year tenure, noting that the union had become one of the most prominent branches in Nigeria.
“We returned the governance of NUT to the people and initiated several people-oriented programs,” Fakolade said.
He proudly recounted the administration’s landmark achievement: organizing the first-ever international trip for teachers within Nigeria and the West African sub-region just two months ago.
“We have worked diligently to leave the union stronger than we found it. Our union is now well-positioned to take its rightful place among Nigeria’s labour movements,” he added.
Fakolade praised his executive team for their dedication and loyalty, stating, “We have paddled the canoe together with a sense of responsibility and resilience. I urge you all to remain steadfast till the very end.”
He also acknowledged the efforts of the 2024 World Teachers’ Day Planning Committee, whose hard work was evident in the success of the event.
As his tenure draws to a close, Fakolade encouraged union members to conduct the forthcoming elections peacefully and elect leaders of good character who would continue to build on the progress made.
“This great union must not return to the days of violent change. We must protect the legacies left by this administration,” he advised.
Senator Mukhail Abiru described teachers as the backbone of every nation. “Teachers are the life of a nation because you are the moulders of society,” he said.
“Through all of you here, the future of this country is shaped. The foundation of any great nation lies in its educators.”
Sen. Abiru commended the teachers for their dedication, acknowledging their pivotal role in developing future leaders.
“You all deserve a special place in the history of this country. Your tireless efforts lay the groundwork for tomorrow’s leaders and changemakers,” he remarked.
However, the senator also highlighted the challenges faced by teachers, particularly in Nigeria, where inadequate resources, overcrowded classrooms, and limited professional development opportunities remain significant obstacles.
He called for increased efforts to improve the welfare of educators, stating, “While we celebrate the immense contributions of our teachers, we must also recognize the challenges they face. We need to work harder to provide better resources and environments for our educators.”
Abiru also emphasized the need for ongoing professional development to equip teachers with the skills required to adapt to technological advancements.
“The world we live in is changing rapidly. To prepare our students for the future, we must continually upskill our teachers, especially in technology and digital creativity,” he noted.
In his closing remarks, Sen. Abiru reaffirmed his commitment to supporting policies that would improve teachers’ working conditions and enhance their professional growth.
Subsequently, comrade fakolade made a special appeal to Sen. Abiru, urging the government to provide more international opportunities for grassroots teachers to foster their growth.
Additionally, he advocated for extending the retirement age of teachers to 65, allowing them to contribute their expertise for a longer period.
His Royal Majesty Oba Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali, the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo Kingdom, attended the occasion and commended the leadership of Com Fakolade.
He expressed optimism about the role of teachers in shaping the lives of future leaders in Ikorodu Division.
In his address, Oba Kasali congratulated teachers across the division, state, and nation for their commitment and consistency to education.
He emphasized the significance of their work and its impact on the development of society.
The monarch urged teachers to continue serving as role models, inspiring their students and transforming their lives.
The 2024 World Teachers’ Day celebration in Ikorodu was not only a moment of recognition but also a call to action.
The event called on stakeholders to prioritize teacher’s voices and establish a new social contract that enhances the status of educators, aiming to set the stage for enduring reforms in the education sector that will benefit both teachers and students nationwide.
INN-HOUSE☆ 