Ogun State Strengthens Basic Education Leadership with Induction of 200 New Head Teachers
Ogun State Strengthens Basic Education Leadership with Induction of 200 New Head Teachers
To strengthen the foundation of basic education across Ogun State, the Ogun State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), in collaboration with the Bureau of Establishment and Training, recently organized a comprehensive one-day capacity building seminar and induction ceremony for 200 newly appointed head teachers. Held at the NUT Hall in Kuto, Abeokuta, the event, themed “Effective School Management as a Catalyst for Qualitative Basic Education,” aimed to equip these educational leaders with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage their respective schools and drive qualitative basic education.
The event was officially declared open by the State Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, who highlighted the critical need for these appointments to fill existing vacancies within the state’s schools. Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Bureau of Local Government Pension, Engr. Olufisan Osiyale, Mr. Onasanya delivered a compelling charge to the inductees, urging them to strive for excellence in their new roles. He emphasized the profound responsibility they now bear in shaping the destinies of their pupils and serving as inspiring figures who will guide their future.
Mr. Onasanya underscored the fundamental importance of basic education as a cornerstone for societal development. He stressed that the head teachers’ actions and punctuality must be deliberate and purposeful in guiding their students. He implored them to be proactive, creative, and diligent in discharging their duties. Furthermore, he encouraged them to actively engage with parents and guardians, recognizing the crucial role of formative years in a child’s development and the need for quality instruction and encouragement during this critical period.
Professor Abayomi Arigbabu, the Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, described the induction ceremony as a remarkable and prestigious occasion. He urged the newly appointed head teachers to view their appointments not just as a recognition of their capabilities but as a significant opportunity to serve the community and showcase their leadership abilities.
Dr. Mikhail Lawal, the Board Secretary of SUBEB, echoed this sentiment, stating that the selection of these individuals as head teachers was a testament to their capabilities and a call to higher responsibilities. He urged the inductees to embrace their role as torchbearers of positive change within the education system. Dr. Lawal emphasized that their responsibilities extend beyond administrative duties, encompassing roles as mentors, community leaders, and crucial drivers of the state’s education policy at the grassroots level. He encouraged them to approach the training sessions with an open mind and a readiness to learn new management strategies.
Goodwill messages were delivered by several key figures in the state’s education sector. Mrs. Melutia Ogunremi, Permanent Secretary, Ogun State Teaching Service Commission, represented by Comrade Oladimeji Adenekan, Zonal Secretary Abeokuta South; Comrade Folake Onabajo, State Chairman, Association of Primary School Head teachers of Nigeria (AOPSHON), represented by Comrade Taiwo Itunnu, AOPSHON State Chairman, Abeokuta South; Comrade Noah Sewakanu, State Chairman, Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), represented by Comrade Samson Oyelere, State Secretary; and Mr. Alli Muhammad, Chairman, Conference of Education Secretary, all charged the participants to be not only administrators but also visionaries, motivators, and agents of change.
The seminar featured insightful lectures and discussions on critical aspects of school management. Mrs. Ronke Soyombo, Special Adviser to the Governor on Education, delivered a lecture titled “Effective Collaboration with Education Stakeholders for Qualitative Delivery of Basic Education in Ogun State.” She encouraged head teachers to foster strong collaborations with stakeholders, effectively delegate responsibilities, actively engage learners, build a solid foundation in early classes, and maintain transparency with clear goals.
Mrs. Oluwatosin Oloko, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, facilitated a session on “Monitoring and Evaluation: A Tool for Successful Learning Achievements in Basic Education.” She stressed the indispensable role of monitoring and evaluation in tracking progress and ensuring effective learning outcomes within schools.
Another facilitator, Mrs. Aminat Matemilola, the Olori of Olowu Kingdom, spoke on “Effective School Manager: Pivotal to a Holistic Basic Education System.” She emphasized that effective school managers must be strategic thinkers, inclusive leaders, and responsive to community needs. She advised the inductees to align their work with national education policies and cultivate a vibrant and motivating school environment.
Speaking on behalf of the newly inducted head teachers, Mr. Olaniyi Akinde from Army Children School, Ayetoro in Yewa North Local Government, and Mrs. Olubusola Komolafe from Ansaru-deen School, Irolu in Ikenne Local Government, expressed their gratitude to the State Government led by Prince Dapo Abiodun for prioritizing their welfare. They collectively pledged to discharge their duties diligently and as expected, demonstrating their commitment to contributing positively to the basic education sector in Ogun State. This induction ceremony marks a significant step towards enhancing the quality of basic education in the state by empowering its school leaders with the necessary skills and vision.
