Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has restated his promise to reward outstanding teachers with cars before the end of the year, as the State joined others to celebrate the Year 2020 World Teachers’ Day.
The Governor, who made the announcement during the event organised to mark the Day at the National Union of Teachers (NUT) Pavillion, Alausa, Ikeja, commended the dedication, hard work and steadfastness of all teachers in public and private schools in the State.
Sanwo-Olu, represented at the event by the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Mrs Folasade Adefisayo, said: “On the 5th of October each year, teachers are celebrated because they are valued and deeply appreciated for their commitment to the teaching profession. This Day is special and important because everyone, especially students, parents and stakeholders in the education sector, offer their respect for teachers in appreciation of their invaluable contributions to the education sector.
“I say to all our dedicated, hardworking and resilient teachers, we commend and appreciate your passion, zeal, cooperation and collective efforts towards the smooth running of our radio, television and online programmes for our students across the State during the COVID-19 lock-down. Indeed, I applaud you for a great job of ensuring that teaching and learning continue despite the lock-down”, he added.
Sanwo-Olu reiterated the commitment of his administration to the welfare of teachers in training and re-training them, prompt payment of salaries/allowances and improved conducive environment for teaching and learning in schools through infrastructure renewal and modern technology.
While assuring teachers that their wellbeing will continue to be given priority by the State Government, the Governor averred that the Lagos has made teaching very attractive through deploying a technology-driven template to improve the sector, employing more teachers as well as creating opportunities for the rapid growth of human capacity across the education sector.
His words: “The effectiveness of our teachers can be judged or measured by the performance of our students both in the internal and external examinations, national and international competitions in which the pupils/students have performed well. Though, there is always room for improvement, which is why I urge the teachers to stay committed because they remain the mirror with which students view themselves”.
Sanwo-Olu, therefore, implored teachers to renew their commitment to hard work, place a premium on service delivery and inculcate the right morals in the young ones.
The United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has set aside October 5 as World Teachers Day to celebrate the roles of teachers in the provision of quality education to future leaders.