2nd Batch of Nigerian Airforce Schools’ Academic Instructors Embark on Advance Upgrading Programme at NIEPA

Following the successful completion of a two-month Advance Upgrading Programme for academic instructors of the Nigerian Airforce Schools in December 2024, the National Institute for Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA) in Ondo, Nigeria, has commenced the training of the second set of 35 academic instructors.

According to reports from the elaborate opening induction held at the Institute’s corporate headquarters on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, the upgrade and skill acquisition programme aims to enhance educational standards in basic and post-basic education in the Nigeria Air Force Schools. The comprehensive programme will focus on enhancing classroom management skills, optimizing learning processes, digital literacy, entrepreneurial education, and familiarizing participants with education law and ethics.

Speaking at the induction ceremony, the Acting Director-General of NIEPA, Dr. David Shofoyeke, commended the Nigerian Air Force School Management for their dedication and commitment to improving education in its schools. Dr. Shofoyeke while stating that experienced resource persons will facilitate the programme using diverse teaching methods, including interactive sessions, group discussions, and practical exercises, 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.  According to Shofoyeke, the Air Men and Women will gain valuable digital skills, including basic computer knowledge, basic excel, use of PowerPoint, and use of computers to prepare lesson notes. “They will also acquire entrepreneurial skills, such as soap making, disinfectant production, tie and dye, enabling them to initiate and manage income-generating projects in their schools. “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,” he said.

Shofoyeke also called on other educational organs of the Nigerian Armed Forces to toe the line of the Nigerian Airforce by patronizing NIEPA’s diverse and flexible programmes tailored to advance educational best practices, stressing that NIEPA gives the best when it comes to the planning and management of education. The NIEPA Boss informed the participants that the programme will include free medical care, free sightseeing, tourist excursions, and sporting activities, making it a total experiential package for the Air Force men and women during their two-month stay.

He further encouraged stakeholders in the industry to take advantage of NIEPA’s expertise in educational planning and administration to improve the quality of education in Nigeria.

Delivering his goodwill message, the Commandant, Nigerian Air Force School Igbarra-Oke, Ondo State, representing the Chief of Administration, NAF Headquarters, Squadron Leader A. A. Abioye, highlighted that the training and knowledge to be acquired during the programme will align with the Chief of Air Staff’s key enablers, particularly deliberate training and mission-oriented force development. The Squadron Leader 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.

Abioye also expressed gratitude to the Ag. Director General of NIEPA and his management team for their commitment to impacting positively on the NAF academic instructors who were in the Institute last year for the same upgrading exercise and specially thanked him for his exceptional leadership and outstanding commitment demonstrated throughout the programme.

Briefing the inductees on the rules and regulations guiding the workshop programme, Head, Training and Research Department NIEPA, Briefing the inductees on the rules and regulations guiding the workshop programme, Head, Training and Research Department NIEPA, Dr. Oyeromi emphasized that participants are expected to adhere to a set of rules and regulations to ensure a smooth and successful programme. He noted that punctuality and regular attendance are crucial, as attendance will be taken daily. Furthermore, Dr. Oyeromi reminded participants to switch off or put their mobile phones on silent mode during sessions to minimize distractions. In addition, participants are not allowed to leave the premises without permission from the programme coordinators. Dr. Oyeromi encouraged participants to engage fully in all activities and exercises, and to participate constructively in discussions with fellow participants and resource persons.

Also speaking at the event, Squadron Leader Falade, who led the first batch of academic instructors to the Institute last year, reminded the participants of the need to maintain discipline and adhere to the rules of the training programme. He emphasized the importance of punctuality and regular attendance at all sessions, as well as active participation in lectures, discussions, and practical exercises. Falade also reminded participants to respect their fellow colleagues, resource persons, and Institute staff, and to adhere to the code of conduct.

The induction ceremony included a health talk delivered by Matron Joke Sayomi, the Institute Clinic Head, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and preventing common illnesses. She announced that medical personnel will be available round the clock to attend to their health needs and emergencies should they arise.

The induction programme was concluded with a visit to key departments in the Institute, including the auditoriums, resource centers, as well as the clinic, to familiarize participants with the available facilities and services. Led by the Media Officer, Bodune Tenabe, the participants also embarked on a guided tour of strategic places in the community, such as historical landmarks and cultural sites, to help them settle in and get acquainted with their surroundings during their two-month stay.