Experts Harp Professional Up-skilling Of Teachers In English Language Proficiency

Experts in the education sector have harped on the need to up-skill the teachers’ English Language skills with modern teaching Methodologies in order to bridge the gaps that might hinder effective communication with students.

They stated this in Abuja yesterday,

at a one day workshop on the ‘Fundings from Strengthening Teachers English Proficiency (STEP) programme in Kaduna state.”

The event was organised by the British Council in collaboration with Kaduna state government and other partners.

The initiative seeks to equip teachers with the necessary language skills and modern teaching methodologies, enabling them to inspire and guide our learners towards a brighter future.

At the workshop, the permanent secretary of the Federal Ministry of Education, Andrew Adejo, said it holds immense significance as it not only underscores the vital role that teachers play in shaping our education system but also highlights the importance of effective communication and pedagogical techniques.

Adejo, who was represented by a staff in the Ministry, Ajie Livinus Makarfi, said, “The essence of this programme lies in its dual purpose: enhancing teachers’ English language skills and equipping them with modern teaching methodologies.

“As educators, we understand that language is the bridge that connects knowledge and understanding. By refining our English language proficiency, we can bridge any gaps that might hinder effective communication with our students.

“The task of enhancing teachers’ English Language skills with Modern Teaching Methodologies is no doubt enormous and critical at this stage of our Educational development, and there can be no better time than now.”

He further said the integration of modern teaching methodologies is equally essential. The classroom dynamics are evolving, and we need to adapt to these changes to ensure that our instruction aligns with the learning preferences and needs of our students.

In his goodwill message, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), Professor Paulinus Chijioke Okwelle said STEP value goes beyond promoting the quality of English language teaching and learning or leveraging ICT and Digital technology to support and sustain teaching and learning activities.

According to him, it also marks a revolutionary trend in the school system which provides a fertile ground for effective teaching and learning and a seamless curriculum delivery.

The executive secretary who was represented by the Ag. Director, Education Services and Int’l Partnerships, Raza Adeyemi Badmils said the training and retraining of teachers in language and digital skills complements the efforts of the Commission in effective teacher preparation.

“Language being an access path to knowledge plays a vital role in teaching/learning transactions. Even if language is not the only element for quality curriculum facilitation, it is an undeniable fact that nothing in education is possible without language.