LASUED VC Urges Greater Involvement of Teachers in Educational Policy Development at World Teachers' Day Celebration

The Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), Prof. Bidemi Bilkis Lafiaji-Okuneye, has called for the active involvement of teachers in the formulation of educational policies and practices. This appeal was made during the institution’s celebration of World Teachers' Day on Saturday, October 5, 2024, themed "Valuing Teachers' Voices: Towards a New Social Contract for Education," held at the Oluremi Tinubu Hall, Oto/Ijanikin main campus.

Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Dr. M.A. Daodu, Prof. Lafiaji-Okuneye emphasized the essential role of educators in shaping societies and preparing future generations. She noted that teachers are the backbone of the education system and urged that their voices be heard in decision-making processes to ensure meaningful impact on educational reforms.

"We must recognize that teachers are vital to shaping the future of our students and the nation. It is essential that educators have a say in the development of educational policies and practices," she remarked, encouraging teachers to persist in advocating for their role in reforming the education sector.

The event featured a keynote lecture by Prof. Ogunyemi Taiwo Florence of Tai Solarin University of Education, who called for greater appreciation of teachers and their inclusion in policy-making. She described teaching as one of the least appreciated professions in Nigeria, noting the challenges educators face, including poor pay structures, irregular salaries, and lack of respect from the community. Prof. Ogunyemi advocated for a "new social contract" that would amplify teachers' voices in educational reform and enhance the professionalization of teaching.

The celebration was attended by dignitaries including the University Registrar, Mr. Akinfemiwa Opeoluwa, the Bursar, Mr. Ganiu Ajose Adeniyi, and the University Librarian, Dr. Imam Abayomi, among others. The event also welcomed students from several secondary schools across Lagos, alongside teachers and educational administrators.

As LASUED celebrated the contributions of educators, Prof. Lafiaji-Okuneye urged teachers to continue their efforts in shaping the future of education, ensuring that their voices become central to policy discussions and educational advancement.