Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has awarded N47.8 million to exemplary primary and secondary school teachers as part of an initiative to recognize and motivate educators in the state.
This significant recognition took place during the 2024 World Teachers’ Day celebration at Ekitikete Pavilion, Ado Ekiti, themed “Valuing Teachers’ Voices: Towards a New Social Contract for Education.” The event brought together educators from the Nigeria Union of Teachers, Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools, and representatives from private institutions.
Mrs. Folayemi Modupe of St. Francis Nursery and Primary School and Mr. Joshua Oriloye of Notre Dame Grammar School each received N6 million as the top winners in the public school category. Additionally, first runners-up were awarded N2 million each, while second runners-up received N1.5 million each. The best school administrators also received N2 million each, with special awards for exemplary private school teachers, educators specializing in digital skills, and those with disabilities, amounting to a total of N47.8 million in prizes.
Governor Oyebanji, represented by Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye, expressed gratitude towards educators for their vital contributions to society. He emphasized the administration’s commitment to improving teachers’ welfare and creating a better learning environment.
Highlighting his administration’s achievements, Oyebanji pointed to the renovation of school facilities, the training of 1,103 teachers in digital education, and over N2.5 billion committed to the Universal Basic Education Commission projects. The governance has also been active in enhancing school infrastructure and providing necessary instructional materials.
Olaitan Daodu, Chairman of the Ekiti State NUT, commended the governor’s dedication to improving education while urging the fulfillment of pending financial obligations, including the 2018 leave bonus for secondary teachers. He also called for the immediate enactment of a retirement policy adopted by other states, allowing retirement at 65 years of age or after 40 years of service.
ASUSS State Chairman, Sola Adigun, further acknowledged Oyebanji’s contributions to teacher welfare and advocated for elevating teachers to grade level 17 as part of ongoing efforts to improve education in Ekiti State.
