The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Skyheights Academy, Arc (Dr.) Hassan Giwa has congratulated teachers in Oyo State and Nigeria at large on the occasion of annual World Teachers’ Day.
Arc Giwa, who is also the founder of Hassan Olawale Giwa (HOG) Foundation, in a statement to commemorate this year’s Teachers’ Day, described teachers as the pillars of the nation, who their interest should be a number one priority in any government’s programme.
He said that the role of teachers of in the nation building can not be overlooked, noting that teaching profession is the foundation in which all other professions build on.
The philanthropist charged the wealthy Nigerians to channel their resources towards uplifting the education sector by motivating the teachers and making the teaching profession a worthwhile.
“I want to join the well meaning Nigerians and rest of the world, who cherished the efforts and contributions of teachers in building the nation to congratulate them on the occasion of the 2023 World Teachers’ Day.
“Teachers are the pillars of any nation, teaching profession is the solid foundation in which other professions build upon. Therefore, teachers needed to be celebrated, they needed to be supported and their welfare needed to be made number one priority.
“I want to charge private individuals and corporate organizations not to leave the development of education into the hands of governments alone. Let us contribute our quota to support the government to make education affordable and accessible for all,” Arc Hassan Giwa advised.
The Asiwaju Adini Musulumi of Ibadan Land also implored the state governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde to look beyond salary and allowances payments as a way to motivate the teachers. He said that environment where knowledge is imparted is also very essential.
“In terms of salary and allowances, the governor is trying and kudos to him. However, the governor needs to seek the support of corporate organizations to put the necessary infrastructure in place. There are many classrooms across the state that are in dilapidated condition, some classrooms are empty, no chairs, no tables, among some other challenges.
“I understand that governments alone can not do it, and that is why the governor needs to seek the support of corporate organizations to provide all these to alleviate the financial burden attached.”
The HOG Foundation founder, while reiterated his commitment to the development of education sector in Oyo State, disclosed that his foundation has renovated schools, supplied chairs and tables, provided writing materials and uniforms, as well as appreciated teachers with cash rewards to appreciate their efforts and commemorate World Teachers’ Day.
By Adekunle Adegboyega
