Teachers Deserve Better

Today, unlike any other regular day, was quite hectic. It took almost the entire day for me, and as I write this, I have just returned to work and am now thinking about going home.

I got to work as early as possible because I had to teach students their morning lessons as they prepared for WAEC. The previous day, my boss told me I would be going for an outing, which I had to prepare for. However, I never imagined it would take the whole day, as I was unable to return to work before the close of the day. I eventually returned much later than usual.
I took some students to a programme at the local government secretariat for the flag-off of the measles and rubella vaccination exercise for children between the ages of nine months and fourteen years. Although not all my students could participate, only those below fourteen were eligible. While the programme was meant for vaccination, the paparazzi made it feel more like a ceremony. Many dignitaries were present, including traditional rulers (Obas) and the wife of the state governor.

The event started exactly at 10 a.m., even though we arrived by 9 a.m. What annoyed me most was the fact that teachers were neither recognised nor acknowledged, despite the organisers acknowledging almost every other group of people from different walks of life. It was shameful to behold, and this is not the first time such has happened. Whenever teachers are recognised at all, they are often treated poorly. In terms of welfare, teachers are rarely treated well. I may not know how it is in other countries, but I am certain about the situation in ours.

It is truly disheartening. How do we convince people that teaching is a noble profession when those practising it are not respected or accorded the dignity they deserve? This situation alone makes one hesitant to even wish teaching on an enemy. It is uncalled for and should be addressed.

There is always room for improvement, and government agencies should look into this issue and do the needful. Teachers should be well remunerated and given what they truly deserve and merit at all times.