The Chairwoman of the Kogi Senior Secondary Education Board, Habiba Suleiman, has emphasized the critical role of discipline and commitment in the teaching profession, urging teachers to uphold these values for enhanced educational outcomes.
During an unannounced assessment visit to Okene Secondary School in Okene on Monday, Ms. Suleiman evaluated both the capacity of teachers and the academic progress of students. She lauded the school for maintaining a clean and aesthetically appealing environment, describing it as a commendable example for other institutions.
Addressing the teachers and students, Ms. Suleiman stressed that education is incomplete without strong moral values and discipline. She asserted that teachers serve as the backbone of societal development and must embody the highest standards of the profession.
“Teaching is not just a job; it is a calling that shapes the future. Educators must be the standard-bearers of discipline and morals. Without these attributes, it becomes difficult to instill the same values in students,” she stated.
Recognizing the increasing challenges in the educational sector, she called on teachers to remain steadfast in their dedication, reminding them that their work plays a pivotal role in shaping responsible citizens and innovative minds.
Beyond discipline, Ms. Suleiman underscored the importance of hygiene in schools, urging educators to cultivate a culture of cleanliness among students.
“Cleanliness is next to godliness, and it must remain a priority in our schools. A well-maintained learning environment fosters academic excellence and personal development,” she noted.
Her remarks come at a time when public schools in Nigeria are grappling with infrastructural challenges, inadequate funding, and the need for improved teacher motivation. The call for discipline and hygiene is seen as part of broader efforts to restore the integrity and quality of secondary education in Kogi State.
Reacting to the visit, Okene Secondary School’s principal, Abduljelil Adebara, expressed gratitude for the chairwoman’s proactive leadership and open-door policy. He emphasized that her engagement with schools demonstrates a deep commitment to educational reforms in the state.
Ms. Suleiman and her team also extended their assessment tour to other schools within the Kogi Central Senatorial District, including Local Government Secondary School Ohiana, AAAMCO, Lenon Memorial College, and GDSS Ahache, reinforcing the board’s commitment to continuous supervision and improvement of the state’s education system.
The visit signals a renewed focus on teacher accountability and school management in Kogi State. With the government and education authorities emphasizing the need for quality teaching, discipline, and better school environments, the future of secondary education in the state could see significant improvements.
Education analysts believe that such hands-on leadership, coupled with policy enforcement and teacher motivation, will help bridge the gap in learning outcomes and enhance overall educational standards in Kogi and beyond.
As the state government continues to push for reforms, the call for discipline and commitment among teachers is expected to resonate across schools. It is hoped that this renewed emphasis on core values will translate into improved student performance, stronger moral foundations, and a more structured educational system in Kogi State.
