BY OSITA BIOSE
THE issue of teachers’ welfare, particularly those in primary schools in Delta State, remains a pressing concern. Many teachers are seeking elevation to level 17 as degree holders, similar to their counterparts in secondary schools. This demand is not new, and it is imperative that the relevant authorities take bold steps to address it.
The stagnation of holders of the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) among primary school teachers is a worrisome trend that requires urgent attention. Addressing this issue would not only boost the morale of affected teachers but also strengthen the foundation of the education system in Delta State. For instance, a study by the National Bureau of Statistics showed that Delta State has one of the highest pupil-teacher ratios in the country, with an average of 50 pupils per teacher. This highlights the critical role primary school teachers play in shaping the future of the state and the nation.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration deserves commendation for its prudent management of resources and intervention in local government affairs. His commitment to infrastructure development is laudable, and it is hoped that he will not forget the stagnated teachers in primary schools. On every given opportunity, the state government has showered encomiums on teachers as partners in progress, and it is essential that these words are matched with action.
As Monday Onyeme, representative of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, noted during the 2024 World Teachers’ Day celebration in Asaba, “All university degrees are the same and should be treated as such.” This statement underscores the need for equality in the treatment of teachers, regardless of their level of education or institution.
It is also noteworthy that primary school teachers in the state do not receive monthly salary payment slips, unlike their counterparts in secondary schools. This issue should be addressed to enhance transparency and fairness in remuneration. The lack of payslips makes it difficult for teachers to keep track of their earnings and plan their finances effectively.
Furthermore, the ICT challenges facing primary school teachers should be addressed through training and resource provision. In today’s digital age, it is essential for teachers to be equipped with the necessary skills to effectively integrate technology into their teaching practices. This would not only improve the quality of education but also prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century.
The state government, Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Ministry of Primary Education, State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), and Delta State House of Assembly should work together to address these issues. A collaborative approach would help to identify and address the root causes of these problems.
In line with this, the following recommendations are made:
- Upgrading primary school teachers from NCE bar on salary grade level 14 to University degree bar on Salary Grade level 17.
- Providing payslips to primary school teachers.
- Addressing ICT challenges through training and resource provision.
Investing in teachers’ welfare is crucial for the future of Delta State and Nigeria. Properly channeling resources towards this goal would be a worthwhile investment. No amount of money deployed for the continued upgrade of teachers should be regretted, if properly channeled. As the state government continues to pursue infrastructure development, it is essential to also remember that the quality of education is directly linked to the quality of teachers.
By addressing the concerns of primary school teachers, the state government can take a significant step towards improving the education sector and securing the future of the state. It is hoped that the relevant authorities will take these recommendations seriously and take concrete actions to address the plight of primary school teachers in Delta State. No amount deployed in education is regrettable, and it is essential to prioritize the welfare of teachers to achieve a brighter future for the state and the nation.!
