In a recent announcement, the Edo State Government confirmed the recruitment of 5,500 teachers to enhance teaching and learning in the basic education sector through the EdoBest program. This move is part of the state’s ongoing efforts to improve educational outcomes and address the teacher gaps in its schools.
Despite rumors of mass teacher layoffs, the government clarified that over 75% of teachers in the EdoSTAR program, whose contracts expire next April, took part in a recruitment exercise and were made permanent teachers. Mrs. Ozavize Salami, the Executive Chairman of Edo SUBEB, confirmed that successful candidates would soon receive their employment letters.
Governor Godwin Obaseki initiated the EdoSTAR program to address teacher shortages across the state’s 18 local government areas. The program initially recruited 3,000 part-time teachers from local communities. Over three years, these teachers received training and are now being integrated as full-time staff to fill the existing gaps.
Mrs. Salami highlighted the success of the EdoBest program, which began in 2018. It has significantly improved accountability and teaching quality across primary schools in the state. Teachers are more committed, and parents can now track their children’s learning progress through technology provided by the government.
The recent recruitment of 5,500 teachers aims to address the teacher shortage in primary and junior secondary schools. Out of 19,931 applications, 16,038 candidates progressed to the computer-based test and interview stages. Most of the new recruits are young and energetic, expected to refresh and strengthen the current teaching staff.
Mrs. Salami emphasized that this recruitment is another testament to Governor Obaseki’s commitment to delivering quality education to Edo State’s children. The program has also ensured that over 70% of EdoSTAR fellows, who were trainee teachers, have now transitioned to full-time government roles with a salary increase from N40,000 to N70,000 in May 2024.
Newly recruited EdoSTAR teachers expressed their excitement about joining the civil service and are eager to continue their work in improving education in the state.
