The Edo State Government has announced plans to absorb 4,000 volunteer teachers under the EdoStar Teaching Programme and to recruit an additional 500 teachers to strengthen the state’s education system. Dr. Paddy Iyamu, the Commissioner for Education, said this initiative reflects Governor Monday Okpebholo’s commitment to addressing the shortage of teachers in public primary and secondary schools. The absorption of volunteer teachers is scheduled for 15 October, when letters of appointment will be presented to the beneficiaries. This move is expected to end the era of prolonged probation for volunteer teachers and help close the manpower gap in schools across the state. As the commissioner noted, even apprentices rarely train for three years without confirmation.
In addition to absorbing volunteers, the government will hire 500 new teachers to further bolster the education system. The state has also invested heavily in infrastructure, constructing more than 68 schools in less than a year. Over 6,000 teachers have been trained in digital and technical skills, including robotics and artificial intelligence, to improve classroom delivery. The commissioner emphasized that investing in human capital is essential, warning that building schools without teachers would result in empty buildings.
The administration has also institutionalized Teachers’ Fitness Day, to be observed each 4 October, promoting teachers’ well‑being. Moreover, the governor has approved a Best Teacher Award for outstanding performance, to be presented annually on 25 November. The Nigeria Union of Teachers, Edo Wing, praised the government for implementing the N75,000 minimum wage, promoting teachers, and renovating schools. However, union chairman Bernard Ajobiewe called for the urgent recruitment of more teachers in rural areas, citing the need for adequate staffing to ensure effective education delivery. He also expressed concern over the dilapidated facilities in many rural schools and urged the swift implementation of financial benefits for promoted teachers and the payment of accrued arrears.
SUBEB chairperson Ebanehita Omonzane urged teachers to continue shaping young minds with patience and integrity, describing them as “true nation builders.” In the keynote lecture, Comrade Joe Iyalekhue highlighted the importance of collaboration in effective teaching, noting that no teacher can succeed in isolation. This development is expected to have a significant impact on Edo State’s education system, benefiting students, teachers, and the broader community.
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