Awka, Nigeria – Gov. Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra, says teachers should be valued, respected and celebrated as their role in mentoring and guiding the younger generation is indispensable.
Soludo made the assertion at ceremonies marking the World Teachers’ Day, held in Awka, on Saturday.
The theme of the event “Valuing Teacher Voices: Towards a New Social Contract for Education”.
World Teachers’ Day is commemorated every Oct. 5 to honour the outstanding role of teachers in shaping future and careers, right from childhood.
He commended the critical role teachers play in molding future leaders and shaping society, particularly in the nation-building process.
“It is our duty to value, respect and celebrate the contributions of our educators. Their role in mentoring and guiding the younger generation is indispensable.
“We owe them immense gratitude for their selfless service.
“In Anambra, we have continued to lead in educational performance and learning outcomes and we remain the state with the lowest number of out-of-school children in Nigeria.
“Our government prioritises education which is why we have continued to set the standard. We believe that education is the bridge to the future, and teachers are the ones holding the padlock and keys to that bridge,” he said.
The Governor appreciated the resilience and dedication of the teachers, and also acknowledged how they embraced innovative teaching methods in the state.
He urged the teachers to embody the change they wish to see, while reminding them of the profound impact their actions have on students.
He reaffirming the state government’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for educators to thrive.
Also speaking, Mr Chika Chukwudozie, Chairman, Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), thanked the Governor for his support to the education sector.