In Lagos State, Adeola Adefemi, a dedicated educator, emerged as the victor of the prestigious African Union (AU) Continental Teacher Prize for the current year.
This remarkable announcement was made by Wodon Quentin, the Director of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), responsible for the International Institute of Capacity Building in Africa, and it coincided with the celebration of Teachers’ Day.
This accomplishment is particularly significant as it follows closely on the heels of two other Lagos teachers who were shortlisted as among the top 50 finalists for the Global Teacher Prize merely two weeks earlier.
Adefemi, who is no stranger to accolades, imparts her knowledge in English Language at Keke Senior High School in Agege, located in Education District 1 of the state.
Last year, she had already claimed the title of Best Teacher in Lagos State, an achievement that was celebrated and rewarded by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu with a brand-new SUV.
Additionally, she clinched the Presidential Best Teacher Prize in Nigeria and received yet another SUV from the Federal Government.
Notably, Adefemi’s achievements extend beyond the national level, as she was also honored with the 2020 Fulbright Teaching Excellence and Achievement Award.
Her recent win of the AU Continental Teacher Prize brought her an award plaque, a certificate of recognition, and a cash prize of $10,000.
It’s worth mentioning that, thus far, only one other Nigerian teacher, Olalekan Adeeko from Ogun State, had been able to secure the AU Teacher Prize, which he accomplished in 2020.
This prestigious accolade is bestowed upon a maximum of eight teachers annually who have exhibited exceptional dedication to their students across the different regions of the African continent.
The AU Teacher Prize plays a pivotal role in elevating the visibility and status of educators in Africa at all levels, ultimately serving to promote teaching as a highly respected profession.
It stands as a testament to celebrating and encouraging outstanding teachers across the continent.
The African Union recognizes that the stature of teachers in Africa is integral to achieving the vision laid out in Agenda 2063, which revolves around integration, peace, and prosperity throughout the continent.
Furthermore, the commission emphasizes that this award not only serves as a symbol of deep respect for teachers and the teaching profession but also raises the profile of educators, inspiring the most promising candidates to pursue a career in teaching.
