Abakaliki: A United Kingdom-based Research Hub, ‘Bestob Education and Research,’ has awarded a N1 million gift to Mrs. Alice Awaza, a teacher at Ohofia Community Primary School in Ukawu, Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Awaza was honored as the oldest teacher who participated in a gathering labeled ‘Ebonyi Teachers First’ held in Abakaliki on Sunday.
Awaza, having served in the teaching profession for 32 years since beginning her career in 1992, expressed gratitude for the recognition. Additionally, nine other teachers from various primary and secondary schools were each awarded an HP laptop to aid their teaching endeavors.
Dr. Obinna Ogbonnia, a lecturer at Swansea University in the United Kingdom, emphasized the importance of prioritizing teachers’ welfare and enhancing educational facilities in basic schools and universities across the nation. He highlighted that investing in teachers is crucial for achieving standardization in Nigeria’s educational system and expressed concerns about the lack of empowerment and training for teachers’ career growth.
Dr. Ogbonnia pointed out that teachers require basic necessities to advance their careers and teaching efforts, questioning how many teachers can claim ownership of a house or property. He underscored the essential role teachers play as the backbone of society.
Prof. Daniel Nwibo, Provost of the College of Health Science at Ebonyi State University (EBSU), advocated for improved conditions of service for teachers in Nigeria. Meanwhile, Prof. Godwin Onu from the Political Science Department at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra, discussed the significance of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in addressing teaching challenges within the country. He stressed that ICT integration could facilitate easier learning and provide access to global knowledge, urging the government to enhance teachers’ capacity through ICT to align with global teaching and learning trends.
Mrs. Awaza, the oldest teacher, expressed her gratitude to the organizers and called for more advanced training opportunities for educators in rural communities.