The Kokoeka Nasa-Okolie Educational Foundation (KONEF) recently marked World Teachers’ Day with a ceremony in Abuja, aligning with the global theme: “Standing with Teachers: 60 Years of Protecting the Profession, Advancing Its Status and Shaping Our Future.” The event brought together educators, school owners, and stakeholders to celebrate teachers and promote policies supporting their growth.
Delivering the keynote, Mr. Adoyi Ofikwu, Director of the Tertiary Education Department at the Federal Ministry of Education, highlighted the importance of the annual observance. He described teachers as “the heartbeat of the education system” and affirmed the Federal Government's commitment to improving their welfare and professional development.
Mr. Adoyi Ofikwu urged collaboration among educators, families, communities, and government to build a lasting teaching career. He emphasized unity and professionalism in line with Nigeria’s national priorities. A representative of the Teachers’ Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) praised KONEF’s initiative, reminding teachers to adhere to professional standards and continuous development.
KONEF founder Dr. Rosemary Nasa-Okolie outlined the foundation’s goals to strengthen teaching, promote inclusive learning, and expand access to quality basic education. She highlighted partnerships with TRCN for teacher registration and with the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to provide affordable healthcare for teachers and their families.
Dr. Nasa-Okolie announced a teachers’ housing scheme, where KONEF has secured land for sale to subscribers at 2 million naira payable over three years. This initiative aims to enable teachers to own property within the FCT. She encouraged teachers to develop professional stability and pride, focusing on career development.
The ceremony included cultural displays, a march-past by participating schools, raffle draws, and awards. Engr. Chinasaokwu Innocent Okolie made partial payments toward land purchases for two teachers under the housing scheme. Guests included representatives from the Federal Ministry of Education, TRCN, and NHIS.
The celebration concluded on a jubilant note, recognizing and encouraging teachers to continue their vital role in nation-building. Key stakeholders, including school owners and union representatives, attended the event, showing support for KONEF's initiatives and the teaching profession as a whole.
Key points
- KONEF calls for greater investment in teaching to improve educators' welfare and professional development.
- The foundation announces a teachers’ housing scheme to enable educators to own property within the FCT.
- The event promotes policies and partnerships supporting professional growth and inclusive learning.
