… as Okonofua Foundation awards outstanding teachers
Edo State government has reaffirmed commitments to the cause of education in the state and urged all to support the teachers, encourage the students as well as work together to create an environment where quality education is not just a goal but a reality for every child across the state
The Edo State Commissioner for Education, Dr Joan Osa-Oviawe gave the reaffirmation in a speech delivered at the seventh edition of the Edo State Teachers Awards Gala organized by the Okonofua Foundation in Benin City
Dr. Osa-Oviawe, represented by Mrs. Ero Ugiagbe, said education is the bedrock of any society and that in Edo State, the government has made it its mission to build a robust educational system that equips students with the knowledge, skills and values needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world, noting that the mission cannot be achieved without the commitment, passion and professionalism of the teachers.
She subsequently noted that the journey to educational excellence is a continuous one and urged every teacher in Edo State to keep striving for improvement, adding that the world is changing, so must the methods of teaching and prepare the students not just for the challenges of today but for the opportunities of tomorrow.
The commissioner then expressed gratitude to the Okonofua Foundation for their unwavering commitment to education in Edo State and their efforts in organizing the events, and support for the teachers are commendable, which reflects a deep understanding of the crucial role education plays in societal development.
Earlier in a welcome address by the Executive Director of the Okonofua Foundation, Dr. Benjamin Okonofua noted that education has been regarded as the cornerstone of societal progress, a belief he says was held dearly by the late High Chief Salu Oniha Okonofua JP. His life’s work revolved around the conviction that education is more than just a fundamental right, it is a transformative tool that can uplift individuals and communities, he said.
He noted also that the late High Chief Salu Oniha Okonofua envisioned a world where illiteracy would be eradicated and where every child and adult could confidently read and write.
Continuing, Dr Okonofua said the Salu Oniha Okonofua Foundation in partnership with the Edo State Ministry of Education embarked on a mission in 2018 to celebrate excellence within the teaching profession thereby bringing Chief Okonofua’s dream closer to reality, pointing out that what started modestly with four categories designed to recognize outstanding educators has evolved into a robust platform that honours the unsung heroes of our education system.
He informed that the award that began with four categories have now expanded to recognize excellence in 21 distinct areas within the education sector, and with each category winner receiving N200,000, a testament to their commitment to valuing and elevating educators vital in the society while the most distinguished of these educators will be honour with the title of of Best Teacher with cash award of N2 million in recognition of their exceptional dedication, talent and impact.
Dr. Okonofua said in addition to celebrating educators in 2024, it also extended to those who have supported education from outside the classroom, these community leaders and advocates have been instrumental in promoting and supporting education, helping to keep Chief Okonofua’s vision alive and also a way of inspiring more people to become active supporters of education and contributing to the betterment of the society.
The highpoint of the event was the awards to the teachers across Edo State in their various areas.
