LEADERSHIP reports that most university graduate teachers in primary schools in Delta State are not happy, and this is affecting their productivity.
Their discontent is due to their stagnation at grade level 14, unlike their counterparts in the secondary schools, who could be promoted to level 17.
This demand concerns not only salary increments but also recognising the value and contribution of these educators to the state’s education system.
Unfortunately, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori recently promoted about 264 secondary school teachers to grade level 17. The magnanimity was not extended to university graduate teachers in primary schools.
Governor Oborevwori’s promise to investigate the plight of these teachers during a meeting with leaders of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Asaba seems not to be yielding positive results.
But the commissioner for Primary Education, Dr. Kingsley Ashibogwu, has revealed that a position paper on the matter has been forwarded to the approving authority.
While it sparks optimism among some teachers, others say it has been a promise too many, citing the disparity in their compensation compared to their counterparts in neighboring states like Edo.
Dr. Ashibogwu’s assertion that primary education is formative underscores the importance of having qualified and motivated teachers in the foundation stage of a child’s education.
He said that university graduate teachers in primary schools have been advocating for lifting their stagnation at grade level 14.
“The proposed elevation of university graduate teachers to grade level 17 would not only boost their morale but also enhance the quality of education in Delta State. The legislative angle to this issue suggests that a new policy might soon be in place.
“As the state legislature considers this proposal, it’s essential to prioritize the welfare of these educators, recognizing their crucial role in shaping the future of Delta State’s education system.
“With careful implementation, this initiative could have a positive impact on the state’s education sector, ultimately potentially shelving the proposed industrial action by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), benefiting the pupils and the entire state,” Ashibogwu said.
One of the affected teachers who did not want her name mentioned said it is too early to celebrate the progress made so far.
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