Educators and elites gone through brainstorming sessions to propose new approach to teaching at the Teachers’ Get-together organised by Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria, Ikeja Area Council.
The Get-together which hosted various stakeholders in the education system was held on Saturday, 7th October, 2023 at the prestigious Ogba Oluwole Central Mosque, Ikeja.
The Guest speaker of the occasion, Dr. Engr. Ibraheem Abdul, ably represented by Dr. Mas’ud Ajala, delivered a thought-provoking lecture on the theme: “The 21st Century Teachers: Empowering Minds, Building Futures”, which ultimately aided the brainstorming session.
In his enlightening speech, Dr. Mas’ud Ajala emphasized the importance of seeking beneficial knowledge and taking action that is pleasing to Allah. He highlighted that the rewards of teaching extend beyond this world into the hereafter. Dr. Ajala also stressed that every individual is worth listening to, emphasizing the worth of teaching efforts.
He further discussed the challenges in the contemporary educational landscape with a focus on fast-paced growth, changing learning environments, and the prevalence of side hustles among educators.
A new approach to teaching was proposed which includes “embracing technology, going back to basics, acquiring high-demand future skills, and adapting to an evolving world”. Self-reliance, entrepreneurship, critical thinking, and digital literacy were also identified as key components of the new approach.
Representing Dr. Mrs. Shareefah Yusuf, the Tutor General/Permanent Secretary Education District VI, Oshodi Lagos, Mrs. Ogunbiyi underscored the conscientious nature of teaching. She stressed that teaching is a vocation of service to Allah, promising rewards in this world and the hereafter. Mrs. Ogunbiyi also noted that teaching requires undivided attention, as preparing materials and delivering lectures demand dedicated time and focus. She called upon the government to recognize the vital role teachers play in shaping the future.
Mr. Murtada, a renowned teacher, commended the choice of the theme, which reflects the demands of the 21st century. He emphasized the need for teachers to adapt to technological advancements in education and make their teaching more “child-centered”.
He also lauded the positive impact of technology in teaching, highlighting the accessibility of online resources and communication tools.
Mr. AbdulRauf Adegoke, Ikeja Area Council’s Amir and the host of the program, expressed gratitude to all sponsors, including the Muslim Teachers Association of Nigeria (MUTAN) and Zippy World. He also extended his appreciation to Dr. Mrs. Shareefah Yusuf and former principals and teachers who graced the event.
Adegoke emphasized the program’s purpose of acknowledging the remarkable efforts of teachers in shaping the young minds of Ikeja.
“The Teachers’ Day event served as a platform to celebrate the invaluable role of teachers in our society and provided insights into the evolving landscape of education in the 21st century. It highlighted the need for teachers to adapt, embrace technology, and remain child-centered, all while emphasizing the essential virtues of selflessness and dedication in the noble profession of teaching.”, he added.
Zaynab Oyedeji.
