WARRI/Nigeria: On the occasion of Teacher’s Day, marked with the theme “The Teacher We Need for the Education We Want: The Global Imperative to Reverse Shortages,” educators in Delta State have rallied behind a plea directed at Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, as the call for a shift towards competence-based teacher recruitment to fortify the state’s educational system.
In a press conference held in Warri, Delta State, Mrs. Margaret Oputu, a retired principal from Hussey College Warri, shed light on the prevailing issues plaguing public schools in the state, particularly in rural areas where teacher shortages are rampant. Oputu emphasized that a majority of public schools suffer from inadequate staffing, urging the governor to launch a massive recruitment drive for educators throughout the state.
Moreover, Oputu stressed the paramount importance of not only hiring teachers but also ensuring that they possess expertise in their respective fields. She alleged that historical employment practices in the state have often been marred by a deficiency in educational standards within public institutions. Oputu condemned recruitment influenced by political patronage and called for merit-based hiring.
The retired principal further contended that many educators in public schools lack a genuine passion for their profession, contending that their motivation stems solely from the need for employment and connections in positions of power.
Mrs. Gift Ojo, a resident of Warri and a teacher at Ginuwa Secondary School in Gbokoda, Warri North, highlighted the issue of teacher shortages in rural schools, especially in essential subjects like mathematics and the sciences. Ojo revealed that she serves as the sole mathematics instructor responsible for both junior and senior secondary classes, deeming the situation highly unfavorable.
Ojo also expressed concern about the lack of basic amenities in rural areas, which she believes discourages teachers from expressing interest in, and accepting postings to, such regions. She appealed to the state government to prioritize the provision of essential amenities in rural areas, asserting that this would significantly enhance the overall learning and teaching experience.
