Comrade Oladimeji Ismail Raji, the current state chairman of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Oyo State Wing, recently spoke with MODUPE GEORGE about his tenure, the elongation of service, and the state government’s efforts in transforming education in Oyo State.

Reflecting on his tenure, Raji expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, highlighting his previous experience as the branch chairman of Ibadan South West Local Government and state treasurer of the union as pivotal to his success. “Experience is key in life,” he noted, emphasizing the role of prayer and dedication in his achievements.

State of Education in Oyo

Raji praised the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde for creating an environment conducive for teachers to fulfill their professional obligations. “Teachers are now willingly going to classrooms to perform their duties without any hitch or form of agitation,” he said. He highlighted the World Bank grant for school renovations and infrastructure development, including perimeter fencing for many schools.

Teacher welfare has also seen significant improvements. “The government does not owe us salary; we are getting our salaries as and when due,” Raji stated. He noted that primary and secondary school teachers are now paid simultaneously, and there are no salary arrears. Additionally, leave allowances have been approved and disbursed, a marked improvement over previous years.

Achievements in Office

During his two-year tenure, Raji has addressed key issues such as the stagnation in career progression for primary school teachers, who can now advance to levels 16 and 17. He also resolved the long-standing issue of ‘secondment’ and successfully lobbied for the recruitment of more teachers. Raji noted that pension payments are now made promptly, typically within one or two months.

Infrastructure developments include the renovation of the NUT office, the construction of a mini-stadium at the NUT model college in Ibadan, and the initiation of a model primary school as a feeder to the college. “Enrollment at the school has moved to about 100,” he said, noting the Ministry of Education’s interest in replicating the school’s success as a pilot scheme.

Running Costs for Primary Schools

Addressing the issue of running costs for primary schools, Raji explained that discussions are ongoing to have local governments, which own the public primary schools, take up this responsibility. “This is just a meagre amount of money, which will only become huge when piled up,” he said.

Extension of Service

Raji clarified that the extension of his service was in line with recommendations from the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and Education International, aimed at addressing the potential future shortage of teachers. “The Federal Government took up the demand for legislation,” he explained, noting that former President Muhammadu Buhari had signed it into law, but only 13 states have domesticated it so far.

Tenure Elongation

Raji addressed the extension of his tenure, explaining that it was an extension of service rather than tenure of office. “His Excellency, the executive governor of Oyo State, considers it necessary to extend the tenure of service, which has given me the opportunity to remain a teacher in Oyo State and to continue as the NUT chairman,” he said. He expressed gratitude to the governor, his colleagues, and the NUT elders’ forum for their support and understanding.

As Raji continues his tenure, he remains committed to furthering the interests of teachers and improving the education sector in Oyo State.