The Muslim Students Society of Nigeria, Ikeja Area Council has organized a spectacular annual Teacher’s Day event aimed at celebrating the educators of Ikeja and its surrounding areas. The event featured an inspiring guest lecture and interviews with distinguished educators.
The representative of the guest speaker, Dr. Engr. Ibraheem Abdul, Dr. Mas’ud Ajala, delivered a thought-provoking lecture on the theme: “The 21st Century Teachers: Empowering Minds, Building Futures.”
In his enlightening address, Dr. Mas’ud Ajala emphasized the importance of seeking beneficial knowledge and taking action that is pleasing to Allah. He highlighted that the rewards of teaching extend beyond this world into the hereafter. Dr. Ajala also stressed that every individual is worth listening to, emphasizing the worth of teaching efforts.
He discussed the challenges in the contemporary educational landscape with a focus on fast-paced growth, changing learning environments, and the prevalence of side hustles among educators.
A new approach to teaching was proposed, including “embracing technology, going back to basics, acquiring high-demand future skills, and adapting to an evolving world. Self-reliance, entrepreneurship, critical thinking, and digital literacy” were identified as key components of the new approach.
Representing Dr. Mrs. Shareefah Yusuf, the Tutor General/Permanent Secretary Education District VI, Oshodi Lagos, Mrs. Ogunbiyi underscored the conscientious nature of teaching. She stressed that teaching is a vocation of service to Allah, promising rewards in this world and the hereafter. Mrs. Ogunbiyi also noted that teaching requires undivided attention, as preparing materials and delivering lectures demand dedicated time and focus. She called upon the government to recognize the vital role teachers play in shaping the future.
Mr. Murtada, a renowned teacher, commended the choice of the theme, which reflects the demands of the 21st century. He emphasized the need for teachers to adapt to technological advancements in education and make their teaching more “child-centered”.
He also lauded the positive impact of technology in teaching, highlighting the accessibility of online resources and communication tools.
Mr. AbdulRauf Adegoke, Ikeja Area Council’s Amir and the host of the program, expressed gratitude to all sponsors, including the Muslim Teachers Association of Nigeria (MUTAN) and Zippy World. He also extended his appreciation to Dr. Mrs. Shareefah Yusuf and former principals and teachers who graced the event.
He emphasized the program’s purpose of acknowledging the remarkable efforts of teachers in shaping the young minds of Ikeja.
The Teacher’s Day event served as a platform to celebrate the invaluable role of teachers in our society and provided insights into the evolving landscape of education in the 21st century. It highlighted the need for teachers to adapt, embrace technology, and remain child-centered, all while emphasizing the essential virtues of selflessness and dedication in the noble profession of teaching.