FROM IFES DESK OPINION 14-9-14 Rubbing minds a while ago with my dignified colleague and Father in poetry Chijioke Amu-nnadi, it struck my consciousness how undignified teaching has become in Nigeria. Introducing oneself as a teacher rings a bell of poverty to the Nigerian listener/parent. Many parents actually address teachers in the most absurd manner as though teachers are a hungry lot. Outside NIGERIA, it is different. I have earned lots of commendation from Rectors and Deans of Faculties as against my own country where I was hardly given a listening ear or even access to the Faculty Deans Secretary. Speaking as the Special Guest Speaker at the Evangelical Presbyterian University, Ho (Volta Region of Ghana) sometime ago during the inauguration of the schools Students Week on the theme, ICT as a vehicle to combat global security and financial crisis: The role of the Tertiary student, it was encouraging to realize that the richest and most educated invitees in successful professions appreciated me and still hold teachers in high regard. The ovation was incredible! I am encouraged. Proudly, I am a Teacher. I am a Mentor. I believe in empowering the youths and watch them take over the world. In Nigeria, I remain proud to be a Teacher; and if you have to throw pieces of shit at me as is the usual practice, I will quietly write a novella about your derailed personality. The good thing is that I will let you know as soon as it gets out from the Publishers to the shelves. #backtowhatbrewedme
Posted on: Sun, 14 Sep 2014 14:14:51 +0000