A United Kingdom-based research hub, Bestob Education and Research, has donated N1 million to Mrs. Alice Awaza, a teacher at Ohofia Community Primary School, Ukawu, in Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
Awaza, the oldest teacher who attended the “Ebonyi Teachers First” meeting in Abakaliki on Sunday, received the cash gift in recognition of her 32 years of dedicated service, having begun her teaching career in 1992.
In addition to Awaza’s award, nine other teachers from various primary and secondary schools across the state received HP laptops to support their teaching activities.
Dr. Obinna Ogbonnia, a lecturer at Swansea University, United Kingdom, emphasized the need to prioritize teachers’ welfare and improve learning facilities in Nigeria’s basic and tertiary institutions.
Ogbonnia, also a researcher, noted that investing in teachers remains the most effective strategy for achieving standardization in Nigeria’s education system.
He expressed concern over the lack of empowerment and professional development opportunities for teachers, urging government and stakeholders to take action.
“Teachers need basic support to enhance their work — food, clothing, and shelter. How many teachers across states can boast of owning a house or a piece of land?” Ogbonnia asked.
He described teachers as “the drivers and brain box of society” who deserve better recognition and working conditions.
Also speaking, Prof. Daniel Nwibo, Provost of the College of Health Sciences, Ebonyi State University (EBSU), said teachers deserve improved conditions of service nationwide.
Prof. Godwin Onu, of the Department of Political Science, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, called for urgent efforts to address challenges in integrating Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into teaching and learning.
He said ICT could make teaching and learning easier and improve access to global knowledge.
“Students get learning updates faster through ICT. Government must build teachers’ digital capacity to align with global trends in education,” Onu said.
In her remarks, Mrs. Awaza expressed gratitude to the organizers for the recognition and called for more training opportunities for teachers, especially those in rural communities.
