By Nwa Rebecca, Abuja
The Chronicle Business School (CBS) recently held its 30th Inaugural Lecture at Bolingo Experia Hotels and Towers in Abuja, themed “Strategic Synergies; Rethinking Teachers’ Continuous Mandatory Education, Training and Welfare in a Democracy for National Development.” Dr. Ismaila Yahaya Evutu, Principal of JSS Abattoir, Gwagwalada, presented recommendations to motivate and encourage teachers.
Dr. Evutu highlighted the challenges facing teachers, including low salaries, inadequate working conditions, and limited access to healthcare, leading to low morale, burnout, and lack of motivation.
In his recommendations for improvement, Dr. Evutu proposed the following: That teachers’ salaries should be comparable to those of other professions; That hey should have access to comprehensive healthcare and; Teachers should be provided with opportunities for professional growth and development.
Others were that: The government should increase the annual budget for the education sector; Parents and communities should actively participate in supporting teachers and schools; Educational policies should be teacher-oriented; Teaching policies should be regularly monitored and evaluated; and Provision of housing schemes for teachers to own houses before retirement.
Dr. Afolabi Olajuwon, Dean of the Faculty of Mass Communication and Journalism at Chronicle Business School, highlighted key challenges and opportunities in education. He noted a widening gap between academia and industry, emphasizing the need for a collaborative approach to ensure curriculum relevance and responsiveness to market demands. Dr. Olajuwon also stressed the importance of promoting diversity and inclusion in business education.
To address these challenges, Dr. Olajuwon proposed embracing innovation and emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and data analytics, to enhance teaching and research capabilities. He emphasized the need for strengthened partnerships with industry, government, and civil society to align programs with global economic needs.
Dr. Olajuwon expressed optimism about the future, highlighting the school’s commitment to shaping business leaders who drive economic growth and contribute to society. He emphasized the importance of ethical leadership, integrity, and accountability in business, and the school’s role in instilling these values in students.
During the event, teachers were recognized for their contributions to education, receiving honorary doctorate degrees in public administration and distinguished fellowship merit awards.
The award recipients expressed their joy and motivation, believing it will positively impact education in Nigeria. Hajiya Ramaru Musa, Director of JSS FCT UBEB and an award recipient, emphasized the importance of hard work and unity. Dr. Anderson Kolawale Ose, Chairman of the occasion, highlighted the need for teacher training and retraining, particularly in the digital age, stressing that education is the bedrock of society. He urged the government and stakeholders to prioritize teacher development for the benefit of both teachers and learners.
In his welcome address, Dr. Godwin Thomas Nyitche, Founder/President of CBS, urged teachers and leaders to work together to tackle the problems facing Nigeria. He emphasized the importance of education in national development and encouraged awardees to make the best use of opportunities provided.
The event highlighted the need for improved teacher welfare and the importance of education in shaping Nigeria’s future.