ONDO STATE BOOSTS EDUCATION WITH NIEPA-BACKED INDUCTION FOR NEW TEACHERS

A two-day induction and orientation programme for over 2,000 newly-recruited teachers for both primary and secondary schools in Ondo state has successfully been concluded in six centres across the state.

 At the flag-off ceremony in Akure on Monday 27th July, 2025, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who was represented by his deputy, His Excellency, Dr. Olayide Adelami mni, acknowledged the role of teachers in improving the standard of education. “It is imperative to emphasise that your appointment is strictly to fill vacancies in our rural communities and to ensure that students in the state have access to quality education, irrespective of their location. I have therefore instructed that anyone who declines posting to where his or her services is required, should be shown the way out” the governor said.

He listed the achievements of his administration in the last one year, which included the construction and renovation of 121 blocks of classrooms, procurement of 9,870 furniture items for both students and teachers and ongoing infrastructural renovation and expansion in secondary schools and technical colleges, among others.

The governor charged the newly-recruited teachers to pay undivided attention to the training programme and be dutiful, saying it is a scheme to sufficiently equip them for the task ahead. “We have emplaced several monitoring teams that will go round the schools to monitor your regular attendance at classes and your output in the days ahead, so you must roll up your sleeves to contribute your quota to the state through quality education” the governor advised the teachers.

The induction ceremony was held in collaboration with the National Institute for Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA) Ondo, an institution renowned for its excellence in empowering and capacity building of the education sector workforce, as aptly pointed out by the Chairman of Ondo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Rt. Hon. Victor Olabimtan.

In his address, Olabimtan reflected on the process that led to the recruitment of the new teachers and commended the governor for his investment in education. He equally asked for more to be done until the UNESCO recommendation of a teacher to 25 students ratio is met.

“An induction programme like this is designed to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in your profession. It’s a platform to learn, grow, and network with fellow educators. As you embark on this noble profession, remember that teaching is not just a job, but a calling that requires dedication, passion, and a commitment to shaping the minds of future generations. The responsibilities placed on you are immense, but with the right mindset and support, you will make a lasting impact on the lives of your students,” he added. He also pleaded with the Governor to consider recruiting 500 teachers yearly to bridge the teacher deficit.

Goodwill messages were received from the UBEC State Coordinator, Mrs. Olanike Adams, Mrs. Morayo Brown-Philips from TESCOM, ANCOPSS, AOPSHON, and NUT, all commending the state government on this initiative.

The Acting Director-General of NIEPA, Dr. David Shofoyeke, who was represented at the occasion by the head of Training & Research department of the Institute, Dr. Lara Ogunsola. The training head charged the newly inducted teachers to take their responsibilities seriously and strive for excellence. “As educators, you are not just teachers, but mentors, role models, and catalysts for change. Your dedication and commitment will shape the future of our society, and we expect nothing but the best from you. I urge you to be proactive, innovative, and passionate about your work. Remember, the impact you make today will be felt for generations to come.”

Lara Ogunsola, in the company of Dr. Samson Oyeromi and the Media Head of the Institute, Bodunde Tenabe, monitored centers at St. James Mega Primary School, Akure; St. Patrick Mega Primary School, Ondo; St. Francis Mega Primary School, Owo; Salvation Mega Primary School, Irele; and Community Primary School in Okitipupa. At each center, Dr. Ogunsola delivered a charge to the inductees, emphasizing the importance of their role in shaping the future of the students and the society. She encouraged them to be dedicated, passionate, and committed to their work, and to strive for excellence in all they do.

The programme took place in six centers: Akure, Ikare-Akoko, Ondo, Owo, Okitipupa, and Irele.