Future of education in Kwara uncertain if teachers are not motivated – NUT chairman warns
Chairman, Nigerian Union of Teachers, NUT, Kwara state, Yusuf Agboola, has warned that the future of education in the state would remain uncertain if teachers are not properly motivated and supported.
Speaking at the ‘World Teachers’ Day’ celebration held on Sunday at ASA Dam Road, Ilorin, the state capital, Agboola urged the state government to among other things urgently address outstanding welfare issues affecting public school teachers in the state.
“The future of education in the state would remain uncertain if teachers were not properly motivated and supported,” he stated.
Agboola commended the state government for the regular payment of salaries, the financial backing of the 2023 and 2024 promotions of TESCOM teachers, and the recruitment of over 3,000 teachers across basic and senior secondary schools.
He, however, lamented that critical welfare matters remained unattended to, such as the 27.5 per cent Teachers Specific Allowance for TRCN-certified teachers and 21 per cent for non-TRCN-certified teachers, which are yet to be implemented in Kwara State.
“The government has also not keyed into the 65/40 years national harmonised retirement age for teachers, and rural allowances for those teaching in remote areas remain outstanding.
“The children in our classrooms today are the leaders of tomorrow, but for us to deliver optimally, we must be motivated and supported. Education is not a one-man show; it requires a system and a united teaching force,” he added.
Agboola further urged teachers to embrace collaboration and mentorship to reposition the profession.
“Let us recommit ourselves to unity within the teaching profession, foster mentorship between senior and junior teachers and create platforms for peer learning and innovation,” he added.
In his goodwill message, NUT National President, Comrade Audu Titus Amba, represented by Comrade Dayo Ajala, called on governments to adequately fund public education and invest in teachers.
“Without deliberate investment in teachers, the future of education is at risk, governments must increase budgetary allocation to education and create a conducive learning atmosphere to ensure quality outcomes,” Amba added.
He saluted the resilience of teachers in Kwara, commending their sacrifices despite challenges.
In his response, the Kwara State Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr Lawal Olohungbebe, represented by the UNESCO Desk Officer, Odedeji Taye, said the government was already working to ensure teachers’ welfare was fully protected.