Nigerian Airforce Schools’ Academic Instructors Complete Advance Upgrading Programme at NIEPA, Acquire Digital and Entrepreneurial Skills
The National Institute for Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA) in Ondo, Nigeria, has successfully completed a two-month Advance Upgrading Programme for academic instructors of the Nigerian Airforce Schools. The programme, which commenced on October 14, 2024, aimed to enhance educational standards in basic and post-basic education in Air Force schools and Nigeria.
The comprehensive upgrading programme focused on enhancing classroom management skills, optimizing learning processes, digital literacy, entrepreneurial education and familiarizing participants with education law and ethics. Experienced resource persons facilitated the programme using diverse teaching methods, including interactive sessions, group discussions, and practical exercises.
Newsmen at the Institute’s corporate headquarters in Ondo City gathered that, in addition to acquiring pedagogical skills, the Air Men and Air Women also gained valuable digital skills, including basic computer knowledge, basic excel, use of PowerPoint, and use of computers to prepare lesson notes. They also acquired entrepreneurial skills, such as soap making, disinfectant production, tie and dye, which will enable them to initiate and manage income-generating projects in their schools. According to the Institute Media Officer, this entrepreneurial training component is a unique feature of NIEPA’s programmes, designed to empower educators with the skills and knowledge needed to promote sustainable development in their institutions.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Acting Director-General of NIEPA Dr. David Shofoyeke, represented by Dr. Festus Olaolu, commended the participants for their dedication and commitment to improving education in Nigeria. Dr. Olaolu emphasized the importance of continuous professional development for educators, noting that NIEPA is committed to providing high-quality training programmes that address the evolving needs of the education sector.
The Ag. DG’s representative also called on other ministries, departments, and agencies of government, as well as the private sector, to patronize NIEPA’s Annual Training Programme (ATP) and its other programmes, stressing that NIEPA gives the best. He encouraged stakeholders to take advantage of NIEPA’s expertise in educational planning and administration to improve the quality of education in Nigeria.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of Administration, Air Vice Marshal Idi Sani, Squadron Leader Gabriel Falade, Commandant of the Airforce School, commended the participants for their hard work and dedication. He noted that the training and knowledge acquired during the two-month programme align with the Chief of Air Staff’s key enablers, particularly deliberate training and mission-oriented force development.
He expressed confidence that the professional knowledge in teaching and learning imparted to the participants will enhance their skills in effective classroom management. This, he said, will make them operational in achieving the key drivers of the Directorate of Education, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, which include Academic Excellence, Integrity and Ethics, and Holistic Development.
Squadron Leader Falade also expressed gratitude to the Head of Department, Dr. Oyeromi Samson, the Registrar of the Institute, Dr Olagoke Festus Olaolu and all academic and non-academic staff of NIEPA for their commitment to impacting positively on the NAF academic instructors. He specially thanked the Director-General of NIEPA, Dr. Shofoyeke, for his exceptional leadership and outstanding commitment demonstrated throughout the programme.
Head, Training & Research department of the Institute Dr. Samson Oyeromi, who also spoke at the ceremony, highlighted the significance of the partnership between NIEPA and the Nigerian Airforce. He noted that the induction programme is a testament to NIEPA’s commitment to shaping the future of education in Nigeria and improving school quality and student learning through collaborative efforts.
NIEPA also took holistic care of the airmen and women, providing medical care and other necessities, ensuring they lacked almost nothing during their stay. The programme also included attractions like free sightseeing, tourist excursions to Erin Ijesha, Osun State, to view the waterfalls, making it a total experiential package for the Air Force men and women during their two-month stay.
The occasion was marked with several highlights, including a crest presentation to each officer, symbolizing their formal induction into the body of “Planners and Managers” of the National Institute for Educational Planning and Administration, following their successful completion of the Institute’s 2-month Annual Training Programme (ATP). The ceremony also featured awards for various individual performances, recognizing the participants’ outstanding achievements during the programme. Additionally, the event showcased a plethora of poetic renditions, adding a touch of creativity and cultural flair to the celebration.
The successful completion of the induction programme marks a significant milestone in the partnership between NIEPA and the Nigerian Airforce. As the participants return to their schools, they are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and entrepreneurial spirit needed to drive positive change in the education sector.
