In a captivating celebration of World Teachers’ Day, Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, showered over N35 million in awards upon teachers and administrators who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to education within the state.
The governor made this grand gesture during a well-attended ceremony at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion in Ado Ekiti. In his address, Governor Oyebanji lauded the educators for their unwavering dedication, resilience, and hard work in advancing education within the state. He further highlighted that his administration has invested over 2 billion Naira in the extensive renovation and enhancement of schools across the state, aiming to create a more conducive and engaging learning environment for both students and teachers.
Governor Oyebanji’s speech emphasized his administration’s recognition of the significant contributions of teachers and their sacrifices in the face of challenges. To address these challenges, his government has taken steps such as settling outstanding salaries, facilitating promotions, granting leave bonuses, and providing car loans, among other incentives.
Reflecting on this year’s World Teachers’ Day theme, “The teachers we need for the education we want: the global imperative to reverse the teachers’ shortage,” Governor Oyebanji acknowledged that the shortage of teachers is a worldwide concern, prompting his administration to conduct two consecutive teacher recruitment exercises. These initiatives have resulted in the hiring of 1500 primary school teachers and 500 secondary school teachers, with plans for additional hiring to replace retirees and accommodate career changes.
While commending the teachers for their dedication, Governor Oyebanji encouraged them to utilize modern technology in enhancing their teaching skills, aligning education with contemporary needs and challenges.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of N5 million cheques to the top teachers in both primary and secondary school categories: Yetunde Osaranmaye of St. Marks Nursery & Primary School, Ilupeju Ekiti, and Tolulope Owoseeni of Harding Memorial College, Ado Ekiti, respectively. Numerous other awards and prizes were distributed, with the best administrators also receiving recognition and incentives.
In his address, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Olabimpe Aderiye, represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi, lauded the Governor’s commitment to and appreciation of teachers. Ekiti State teachers’ unions, including the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) Chairman Prof. Femi Akinwumi, NUT National President, and ASUSS Chairman, echoed this appreciation and commended the governor for his dedication to the education sector.
The event witnessed the presence of prominent figures, including the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Afuye; Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye; and other dignitaries from the state executive, legislature, and education sector.
