By Jane Salihu
The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, has called for stronger investment in teachers’ professional development, welfare and digital skills to enable them cope with the rapid changes being introduced by technology and Artificial Intelligence in education.
Alausa made the call while speaking at the 2026 World Teachers’ Day commemoration and President’s Teachers’ and Schools’ Excellence Awards ceremony.
Speaking on the theme, “Protecting and Advancing the Status of the Teaching Profession in a Rapidly Changing World,” the minister said technology could expand teachers’ ability to reach learners, but cannot replace the human judgement, encouragement and connection provided by skilled educators.
He said the Federal Government would therefore continue to work with state governments, school leaders, professional bodies, organised labour, development partners, communities and parents to strengthen teacher preparation, professional development and recognition.
According to him, teachers must be provided with appropriate resources, opportunities for career development, fair recognition and conducive working conditions to enable them deliver quality education.
The minister said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had placed teachers and learners at the centre of ongoing education reforms, with emphasis on better learning environments, stronger institutions, skills for a changing economy, reliable education data and improved teacher welfare.
Alausa stressed that quality education for Nigerian children could not be achieved without a strong and respected teaching profession, noting that teachers remain central to preparing the next generation irrespective of whether they serve in urban centres or remote communities.
He also used the occasion to celebrate outstanding teachers, school administrators and schools recognised under the 2026 President’s Teachers’ and Schools’ Excellence Awards.
The minister described the awards as a national recognition of professionalism, innovation and leadership in education, urging the recipients to continue serving as examples to others.
While congratulating the awardees, Alausa said the work of teachers who were not receiving awards was equally valuable, noting that every lesson taught and every child encouraged contributes to Nigeria’s future.
He called for sustained national support for teachers beyond the annual celebration, stressing that the profession deserved respect, investment and partnership throughout the year.
The minister further urged Nigerians to renew efforts to protect the dignity and professional standing of teaching while equipping educators with the skills required to succeed in an increasingly technology-driven world.
He congratulated all recipients of the 2026 President’s Teachers’ and Schools’ Excellence Awards and commended Nigerian teachers for their service, perseverance, professionalism and contribution to national development.
