Esomnofu Ifechukwu, winner of the 2024 Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition in this interview, speaks on his experience about the contest, which has become an annual event for Nigerian teachers and his motivation for the teaching profession.
How will you describe your experience winning the competition?
Winning this competition felt like a dream come true and a strong motivation to keep fighting against phobia in Mathematics. When students who fear Mathematics see that someone, who once struggled with it became one of the country’s best Mathematics teachers, it can inspire them to believe they can succeed too.
What do you think gave you an edge in this year’s edition?
I believe my personal story and consistent work against Mathematics phobia, along with my innovative teaching practices gave me a competitive edge over others.
Have you always wanted to be a teacher or circumstances around you made you take up the profession?
Teaching has always been my choice. I am passionate about teaching. My desire to teach led me to study Mathematics Education. I did that with a purpose to overcome and teach beyond the challenges I once faced with the subjects.
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Teachers’ welfare is believed to be low. What do you think could be done?
I think the government needs to do a lot to improve the welfare of teachers. While I am aware that they are trying their best, more still needs to be done to attract the best to the teaching profession. Teachers need better motivation from the government and school owners, both in pay and recognition. A motivated teacher can inspire greatness in students.
Technology is advancing. What are the skills and facilities you think teachers need in this age?
Teachers today need strong digital skills to effectively integrate technology in the classroom. Facilities like smart boards, reliable internet, and interactive software should be readily available to enhance teaching and learning.
What are your motivation as a teacher?
My major motivation is seeing my students win. I have received positive comments, feedback, and testimonies from my students in Nigeria and others around the world about how my simple approach helped them conquer the phobia of Mathematics.
Has there been any time you considered quitting?
No, I haven’t. I’m committed to ending the phobia of Mathematics. For me, teaching is a passion and a mission to change lives and build a better society.
What have been your challenges as a teacher? Can you encourage your children to take up the profession?
My biggest challenge has been managing large classes and teaching without the necessary.
resources, like electricity or interactive tools. Despite this, I would gladly encourage my children to become teachers if they see it as a calling.
What are the legacies you want to be remembered for as a teacher?
I want to be remembered as the teacher who helped students conquer the fear of Mathematics.
Looking at our education policy in Nigeria, do you think it is delivering the desired result? If not, what is the way forward?
I won’t say the government’s education policy has not delivered results; rather, it has laid the groundwork for success. While the policies have laid a foundation, they need to be more action-oriented and adaptable to global educational trends. We need to bridge the gap between policy and implementation, ensuring all schools have access to resources and that policies promote inclusive, hands-on learning experiences.
What are some of the strategies you think managers of Nigeria’s education system need to put in place to boost opportunities for teachers and students to achieve their full potential?
Managers should focus on continuous professional development for teachers, and improved infrastructure, and enhanced access to digital resources. Providing teachers with competitive wages, career growth opportunities, and a supportive environment will help retain talent and boost student performance.
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