By Ovat Abeng
About two diesel generating plants and armored cables were reportedly vandalized by hoodlums in Anambra State Teacher’s house Awka.
The State Chairman of Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Comrade Chika Grace Chukwudozie disclosed this in her address presented on the occasion of this year 2024 World Teachers Day celebration, held at the Teacher’s house Awka, on Saturday.
She said the hoodlums gain entrance through the lower part of the fence behind the secretariat conference hall and that it happened early last month at the night hours.
She noted that they have raised up the fence after the ugly robbery incident.
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The Chairman, who appeal for replacement, however, expressed optimism that in spite of the challenges in society, teachers have cause to celebrate.
She appreciated the State Governor, Chukwuma Charles Soludo on the landmark achievements in all sectors including, massive infrastructure development, revamping of the education sector, overhauling of the health sector, strides in the agriculture sector, one youth, two skills empowerment, war against criminality, among others, pledging the support of teachers for the governor.
Governor Soludo in his remarks at the occasion, acknowledged the pivotal role of teachers in society and the importance of their contribution to shaping the future of the nation.
The Governor praised the efforts and dedication of teachers, especially when they had little or no support before he came, and they had to adapt to new teaching methods, ensuring that education continued despite the challenges.
“It is our responsibility to value, respect, and celebrate the contributions of our educators. Their role in guiding and mentoring the children of our society cannot be overstated. We owe them our appreciation and gratitude for their selfless service,” said the Governor.
“In Anambra, in terms of education and learning outcomes, we are still at the top of the league. As a result, enrolment in all public schools has gone up to 18 percent.
“Anambra ranks number one in the lowest out of school children in Nigeria. We will continue to excel.
“Education is the bridge to the future. Education is the key, but the teachers have the padlock and the keys.
“Very importantly, the message I leave with you is to be the change that you want to see. Continue to be the example. The children entrusted into your care are watching. They learn more from what you do than what you say.
“I can remember all my teachers today because they left some lasting impressions on me. As teachers, the impressions you leave on your pupils and students will live with them. Some of them will forget, but some will remember. The examples that you give are impressionable, especially those teaching the very little ones. Always remember that.
When some unpatriotic people say that Nigeria is bad, do your own bit. Don’t say and lose faith that things have gone bad.
“For teachers, yours is a vocation, not just a job. It is a call. Persist, persevere, and keep on giving value.
The Governor equally took the opportunity to interact with teachers and understand the challenges they face daily, assuring them of the State’s support and commitment to providing an enabling environment that will allows them to thrive in their career.
The event with the Theme; Valuing Teachers Voices: Towards A New Social Contract For Education,” was attended by the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, Chairmen of Anambra State Universal Education Board and Post Primary School Service Commission, Dr. Nkiru Nwadinobi and Prof. Nkechi Ikediugwu respectively, State NLC Chairman, Comrade Humphrey Chukwuemeka Nwafor, Majority leader at the State House of Assembly, Hon. Ikenna Ofodeme, House Committee Chairman on Education, Hon. Anayo Okpalaeke and a large gathering of teachers from different schools in the state.