n celebration of Teachers' Day, Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun announced plans for the construction of 12 blocks of 900 smart classrooms across four schools in each of the state's educational zones. The selected schools are Abeokuta Grammar School in Idi-Aba, Ijebu-Ode Grammar School, Remo Secondary School in Sagamu, and Yewa College in Ilaro.

Additionally, Governor Abiodun declared Monday, October 6, 2024, as a work-free day for teachers to honor their contributions. The announcement was made during this year’s Teachers' Day celebration at the Cultural Centre in Kuto, Abeokuta.

The governor revealed that 1,000 interns from the OgunTeach scheme will be integrated into the State Teaching Service Commission, increasing the total number of employed teachers to 5,000 since his administration began. He also approved renovations for all special schools and an increase in the feeding allowance for their pupils, ensuring they feel a sense of belonging.

Acknowledging the vital role of teachers in shaping future generations, Abiodun promised transport allowances for all public school teachers, replacing the work-free days currently offered to other state workers. He highlighted his administration's efforts to enhance the education sector, including the introduction of the Ogun Digitalized Multimedia Lesson Plan, which equips teachers with essential resources for effective instruction, and the establishment of a Central Education Management Information System (EMIS) for better data management.

Other significant achievements mentioned by the governor include the Ogun State Education Intervention Fund, the successful conduct of the BECE using Optical Mark Reader sheets, and the installation of ICT facilities in anticipation of the Nigeria Learning Passport for e-content.

On the topic of unaccessed UBEC funds from 2020, Abiodun explained that when he took office, the state had not accessed funds from 2014 to 2017. After addressing these issues, he noted that the current funding pertains to 2018 and 2019, emphasizing the need for a reevaluation of the work plan to focus on the most disadvantaged schools.

Abiodun urged everyone to recognize the transformative power of education and the critical role teachers play in the nation's development. He reaffirmed his administration's commitment to supporting educators, stating that investing in education is an investment in the future of Ogun State.

In opening remarks, Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, noted that the theme of this year's celebration aligns with the administration's vision for a new social order in the education sector and beyond.

Comrade Felix Agbesanwa, Chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS), praised the administration for prioritizing teachers' welfare through timely salary payments, promotions, and training opportunities.

Comrade Sewakanu Oladipupo, Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) in Ogun State, emphasized that despite economic challenges, the government has prioritized teachers and the education sector.

The celebration concluded with the awarding of cash prizes to outstanding teachers, schools, and administrators from the previous academic year.