By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, has described education as the bridge to the future.

Soludo who is widely known for his passion for promoting education stated this dyring the celebration of 2024 World Teachers' Day at the Teachers' House in Awka on Saturday.

Speaking at the occasion, the Governor acknowledged the pivotal role of teachers in society and the importance of their contribution to shaping the future of the nation.

He hailed the efforts and dedication of teachers, especially when they had little or no support before his coming.

While appreciating the teacher's effort to adapt to new teaching methods and ensuring that education continued despite the challenges, he said,

"It is our responsibility to value, respect, and celebrate the contributions of our educators. Their role in guiding and mentoring the children of our society cannot be overstated. We owe them our appreciation and gratitude for their selfless service," said the Governor.

"In Anambra, in terms of education and learning outcomes, we are still at the top of the league. As a result, enrolment in all public schools has gone up to 18 percent.

"Anambra ranks number one in the lowest out of school children in Nigeria. We will continue to excel.

"Education is the bridge to the future. Education is the key, but the teachers have the padlock and the keys.

"Very importantly, the message I leave with you is to be the change that you want to see. Continue to be the example. The children entrusted into your care are watching. They learn more from what you do than what you say.

"I can remember all my teachers today because they left some lasting impressions on me. As teachers, the impressions you leave on your pupils and students will live with them. Some of them will forget, but some will remember. The examples that you give are impressionable, especially those teaching the very little ones. Always remember that.

"When some unpatriotic people say that Nigeria is bad, do your own bit. Don't say and lose faith that things have gone bad.

"For teachers, yours is a vocation, not just a job. It is a call. Persist, persevere, and keep on giving value."

The Governor used the opportunity to interact with teachers to get insight on the challenges they face daily, even as he assured them of the state's support and commitment to providing an enabling environment that allows them to thrive in their career.

Earlier in his speech, the Chairman of Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT, Comrade Chika Chukwudozie expressed optimism that in spite of the challenges in society, teachers have cause to celebrate

She appreciated the Governor on the landmark achievements in all sectors including, massive infrastructure development, revamping of the education sector, overhauling of the health sector, strides in the agriculture sector, one youth, two skills empowerment, war against criminality, among others.

Chukwudozie further pledged the support of the teachers for the Governor.

The event was attended by the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, Chairmen of Anambra State Universal Education Board and Post Primary School Service Commission, Dr. Nkiru Nwadinobi and Prof. Nkechi Ikediugwu respectively.

Others include, Majority leader at the State House of Assembly, Hon. Ikenna Ofodeme, House Committee Chairman on Education, Hon. Anayo Okpalaeke, a large gathering of teachers from different schools.

The World Teachers' Day event was a significant milestone in promoting education and recognizing the crucial role of teachers. With the Governor?s attendance, it further emphasized the efforts of the state's leadership in supporting education and ensuring the delivery of quality education to all learners.

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