TEACHERS NEED THEIR REWARD ON EARTH

In Nigeria, teachers' reward lies in Heaven, yet their earthly compensation is woefully inadequate. Many believe teachers should earn as much as bankers, recognizing the crucial role they play in society. The pay gap between teachers and other professionals is a glaring issue that needs urgent attention. The welfare of Nigerian teachers, particularly at the primary school level, has been declining over the years.

Primary education, the foundation of the education system, is being handled by the most dysfunctional government tiers, with little intervention from the federal and state governments. Both local and state governments struggle to maintain primary education due to financial constraints. This lack of funding results in poor working conditions, delayed salaries, and lack of attention to teacher training.

Teachers are not being recruited based on merit but rather through political patronage and compensation. The financing model of primary education needs to be reconsidered. The Nigerian government must prioritize the education sector, especially primary education, by providing adequate salaries, training, and resources to attract and retain the best teachers.