The Edo State Government has announced plans to empower 4,000 volunteer teachers under the EdoStar Teaching Programme and recruit an additional 500 educators to strengthen public schools across the state.
Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, disclosed the initiative on Sunday in Benin during the 2025 World Teachers’ Day celebration, themed “Recasting Teaching as a Collaborative Profession.” He said the move reflects Governor Monday Okpebholo’s commitment to rewarding dedication and addressing the shortage of teachers in primary and secondary schools.
“Come October 15, we will present appointment letters to about 4,000 EdoStar volunteer teachers who have been teaching for the past three years. In addition, the government will recruit another 500 teachers into the system,” Iyamu said. He added that the gesture would end prolonged probation periods for volunteer teachers and help bridge manpower gaps across schools in the state.
Highlighting investments in education infrastructure, Iyamu noted that Edo State had built over 68 schools in less than a year and trained more than 6,000 teachers in digital and technical skills, including robotics and artificial intelligence, to enhance classroom delivery. “When we build schools without teachers, they are just empty buildings. We are investing in people who will shape our children’s future,” he said.
The commissioner also announced the institutionalisation of Teachers’ Fitness Day, to be observed annually on October 4 to promote teachers’ well-being, and the introduction of a best teacher award to recognise outstanding performance every November 25.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Bernard Ajobiewe, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Edo Wing, commended the government for implementing the N75,000 minimum wage and promoting teachers, but called for urgent recruitment in rural areas and the payment of accrued arrears. He also cautioned against handing over public schools to missionaries, citing potential inequities for marginalised groups.
Mrs. Ebanehita Omonzane, Chairperson of SUBEB, urged teachers to continue shaping young minds with patience and integrity, describing them as “true nation builders.” Comrade Joe Iyalekhue, retired Principal Assistant Secretary-General of NUT, delivered the keynote lecture, emphasising that collaboration, not competition, is key to effective teaching in modern education.
World Teachers’ Day is globally observed on October 5, with Nigeria joining the celebrations this year to highlight the importance of teacher empowerment and capacity building.
