Politics
AFRICA Youth Growth Foundation (AYGF), a non-governmental organisation, has called on the Federal Capital Territory Administration to dialogue with the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) toward ending the ongoing strike in government schools.
Dr Arome Salifu, the Executive Director of AYGF said in this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Wednesday to mark the International Day of Education, with the theme` `Learn for Peace’’.
“Jan. 24 is a day set aside to mark the Education Day, established by UNESCO to emphasise the crucial role education and teachers play in the goal of poverty eradication,” Salifu said.
He said that poverty was closely tied to illiteracy in many third-world nations; therefore, educators were instrumental in building and empowering young people, not only for the country but also beyond, through knowledge acquisition.
“In commemorating this day, we aim to bring awareness to the current issue at hand, which lacks national coverage.
“Recognising the pivotal role educators play in shaping the future, AYGF acknowledges the significance of just compensation for teachers’ unwavering dedication.
“We understand that NUT is demanding a 40 per cent allowance and the resolution of 25 months’ minimum wage arrears and there is urgent need for financial acknowledgment during these challenging times.
“With the understanding that quality education is a collective responsibility, AYGF therefore, calls upon all stakeholders, including government authorities and the NUT, to engage in constructive dialogue aimed at achieving a swift and equitable resolution to the ongoing issues, ’’he said.
Salifu said that given the potential impact of disruptions in the learning environment on students, AYGF called on the government to prioritise the well-being of teachers and the continuity of their education.
He also appealed for collaborative efforts to promptly address the concerns of the teachers, ensuring conducive learning environment for the benefit of the students.
He said that AYGF remained steadfast in its commitment to supporting initiatives that fostered quality education and hoped for a resolution that safeguard the interests of both teachers and students.
The executive director said that there was need to provide training for educators to equip them with the skills to teach conflict resolution, peace building, and cultural sensitivity.
“Well-trained teachers play pivotal roles in shaping the perspectives of the next generation,” he said.
He called on governments at all levels to leverage the 2024 theme for Education Day“Learn for Peace’’ to encourage peace education to enable students to adopt a positive attitude.
This, he said, would go a long way to help students develop skills necessary for peaceful resolution of conflicts regarding the different issues they face in life.
“Peace education is important for cultivating the culture of peace and the theme underscores the vital role education plays in fostering peace and stability.
“To leverage this theme for lasting peace in Nigeria, the Federal Government and other stakeholders should integrate peace education into the national curriculum at all levels.”
Salifu said that this should encompass conflict resolution skills, cultural understanding, and the promotion of tolerance to build a foundation for peaceful coexistence.
NAN
24th January, 2024
C.E
Tags: AFRICA Youth Growth Foundation (AYGF) Arome Salifu NUT UNESCO
