The Edo State Government has introduced Teachers Professional Development Day to appreciate and celebrate the contributions of teachers to the development of the state’s education system.

The Edo State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Joan Oviawe, disclosed this to journalists during an event to commemorate this year’s World Teachers Day, with the theme, “The transformation of education begins with teachers," held in Benin City.

The Commissioner said the event will be marked on the third Wednesday of June from next year in commemoration of the launch of EdoBEST 2.0.

She noted, “We have created a Teachers Professional Development Day. It's a day in a term where the children don't come to school but a day for teachers to take stock of their contributions to the education system and what they need to do more to improve the system.

“The Edo State Government recognises the role of teachers in the education system of the State and has gazetted the Teachers Appreciation Day and it will come up every 15th of June. I appeal to parents and stakeholders to find a teacher and appreciate them for their meaningful contributions and development to the educational system of the State.”

She said the government will sustain efforts at developing the capacity of Edo teachers to enable them to add more value to the system of education in the state.

“We will continue to improve our infrastructural development in the State to ensure that our children get the best in the system. We will provide the infrastructure and also support maintenance systems. Excursion, and inter-house sports are mandatory for our students but I appeal to principals not to take advantage of opportunities to exploit our parents as the government will not tolerate such an act as it will resist it in totality.”

Earlier, the Chairman, National Union of Teachers (NUT), Edo State Chapter, Comrade Bernard Ajobiewe has commended the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki for his government’s proactive stance on teacher professional development.

He said, “The Governor Obaseki-led administration has a direction for education which is why it has hugely invested in the teaching profession and the educational system of Edo State as our students are enjoying the dividends of that investment.

“The governor has done a lot for the teachers and is expected that the teachers show commitment and dedication as they contribute to the development of the education sector in the State.”