By Emmanuel Awari – Jalingo
The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Taraba State Wing, has called on the state government to appoint qualified and experienced teachers as Permanent Secretaries in the state civil service.
The State Chairman of the NUT, Comrade Nathan Solomon, made the call in Jalingo during an event organised to mark this year’s World Teachers’ Day.
Solomon stressed the need for greater recognition of the teaching profession, noting that qualified teachers should be given opportunities to contribute their expertise to policy formulation and administration within the civil service.
The event featured a workshop as part of activities marking Teachers’ Day, with the theme: “Standing with Teachers: 60 Years of Promoting the Profession, Advancing Its Status and Shaping the Future.”
He said the theme underscored the important role teachers have continued to play in developing the education sector and shaping the future of society.
According to him, the theme of this year’s celebration reminded stakeholders that teachers are at the heart of every successful education system.
“For generations, teachers have not only imparted knowledge but have also nurtured character, inspired dreams, shaped values and prepared young people to become responsible and productive citizens.”
He said the quality of education depended greatly on the welfare, motivation and working conditions of teachers.
“We therefore call for continued investment in education, regular training and professional development, adequate teaching and learning facilities, timely payment of salaries and allowances, and improved welfare packages for teachers.”
He reaffirmed the union’s commitment to working constructively with the government and other stakeholders to promote quality education, protect the dignity of teachers and advance the professional status of the teaching profession.
“At this juncture, the union wishes to sincerely appreciate His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Taraba State, for the payment of outstanding arrears owed to teachers. This gesture has brought considerable relief to our members and demonstrates a commitment to addressing issues affecting the welfare of teachers.
“I wish to place it on record that His Excellency, Governor Agbu Kefas, has demonstrated a teacher-friendly disposition, particularly through his emphasis on education as one of the priorities of his administration.
“We also appreciate the government for the successful conduct of our National Conference of Delegates and other initiatives aimed at strengthening the education sector.
“However, while appreciating these efforts, we respectfully urge the government to continue to give attention to the outstanding concerns of teachers. In particular, we appeal for the implementation of promotions and annual increments as and when due.
“We also call on the government to consider the elevation of deserving teachers to Grade Level 17, in line with the need to recognise excellence, experience and professionalism within the teaching service,” he said.
“Teaching is more than a profession; it is a noble calling and a service to humanity. Let us therefore continue to stand together, support one another, uphold the dignity of our profession and remain committed to giving our children the quality education they deserve,” he added.