Yola: The PLAN International, in partnership with the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE) Nigeria, has developed a framework to institutionalize onboarding and orientation for newly recruited teachers in Adamawa. Mr. Zakari Tanimudari, Project Officer at PLAN International, disclosed this during the State-Level Validation and Adaptation of the Teacher Onboarding and Orientation Manual held on Monday in Yola.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the initiative is part of the Building Resilient Education Systems Project funded by Expertise France. The pilot project is being implemented in the Numan, Fufore, and Michika Local Government Areas of Adamawa. Tanimudari emphasized that the project aims to enhance teachers’ professional development and wellbeing, particularly in crisis-affected states like Adamawa and Sokoto.
Tanimudari noted that many newly recruited teachers lack the necessary skills and orientation to effectively fulfill their roles. To address this, PLAN International and its stakeholders have developed the onboarding framework and manual to provide structured guidance for newly employed teachers. The document has been validated to ensure its relevance, adaptability, and sustainability beyond the project’s lifespan.
The manual is expected to become a permanent resource for teacher induction and professional development in Adamawa. Tanimudari mentioned that 20 master trainers from the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) would be selected to support the continuous onboarding of newly recruited teachers. The manual addresses various aspects such as teacher wellbeing, remuneration, professional growth, and gender-responsive teaching practices. It also covers classroom management, communication skills, and inclusive teaching approaches for diverse learners.
The need for state ownership of the initiative was emphasized to ensure that teachers are adequately oriented and prepared before deployment. Mrs. Jiddere Kaibo, National Chairperson of FAWE Nigeria, highlighted that the program is designed to support teachers in conflict-affected communities. The onboarding program bridges the gap between theory and practice through practical, job-ready training, and includes peer-support mechanisms such as mentoring and teacher circles.
Mrs. Patience Bimas, Director at Adamawa Ministry of Education, representing the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Graba Pella, stated that the manual would improve classroom practice and teaching effectiveness. Bimas commended PLAN International for its support in teacher orientation and professional development in the state.
Mr. Mohammed Musa, Director at Adamawa SUBEB, mentioned that newly recruited teachers are posted to their local government areas of origin for familiarity and safety. The government has also deployed additional security personnel, including paramilitary operatives and forest guards, to vulnerable communities. Teachers serving in hard-to-reach areas receive incentives to cover transportation and living expenses. Musa expressed confidence that the initiative would improve teacher retention and learning outcomes across the state and urged newly employed teachers to take their responsibilities seriously and continually improve their capacities, especially in digital skills.