The Kwara State Government has unveiled a bold initiative to transform the education sector by recruiting 1,800 teachers, 100 non-teaching staff, and 200 security guards for senior secondary schools across the state. This effort, spearheaded by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, aims to address critical staffing shortages, especially in rural areas.
The Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), Malam Bello Abubakar, announced the recruitment plan on Friday in Ilorin. According to Abubakar, the initiative prioritizes underserved schools in the hinterlands, ensuring that students in remote areas benefit from quality education and a safer learning environment.
“This recruitment is part of the government’s commitment to strengthening education in rural communities where teacher shortages are most severe,” Abubakar said in a statement.
Kwara’s rural schools have long grappled with inadequate staffing, impacting the quality of education and learning outcomes. Abubakar emphasized that the newly recruited teachers would be strategically deployed to bridge this gap, with a special focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects.
“Applicants with expertise in STEM subjects will be prioritized,” he stated, adding that subject areas in Arts and Commerce would also be considered. However, candidates must meet stringent requirements to qualify.
“All applications will be online, and applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Education or its equivalent, such as a B.Sc. (Ed), B.A. (Ed), or a B.Sc. with a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE). National Certificate in Education (NCE) holders will also be eligible,” Abubakar explained.
The recruitment exercise promises to be rigorous. Only candidates below the age of 35 as of January 31, 2025, will be eligible to apply. Furthermore, the government has introduced mandatory drug tests as part of its strategy to uphold discipline and professionalism in schools.
“Applicants who fail drug tests or exhibit behavior unbecoming of a teacher will be disqualified at any stage of the process,” Abubakar warned.
This approach underscores the government’s commitment to creating a drug-free learning environment and ensuring that teachers serve as role models for students.
Beyond addressing academic staffing needs, the recruitment drive also includes hiring 200 security guards to enhance safety in schools. This move aligns with the state’s broader objective of fostering secure educational environments.
“Safety is paramount. By employing security personnel, we aim to protect both students and staff, particularly in rural areas where vulnerabilities are higher,” Abubakar noted.
Kwara State’s education system has faced numerous challenges, from inadequate funding to a lack of infrastructure and teaching personnel. Rural schools have been disproportionately affected, with some relying on underqualified teachers or facing long periods without instructors in critical subjects.
This initiative by Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration reflects a strategic response to these issues. By prioritizing STEM education, the state aligns with global trends emphasizing technological and scientific advancement as drivers of development.
In recent years, Kwara has made strides in improving its education sector. However, experts believe more needs to be done to bridge the gap between urban and rural schools. This latest recruitment effort signals a renewed focus on achieving equity in education.
TESCOM has assured the public that the application portal will be available in the coming days. Prospective applicants are encouraged to prepare their credentials in line with the stated requirements.
“Applicants must ensure their subject areas are listed on the portal before applying. Those whose fields are not indicated need not apply,” Abubakar reiterated.
This specificity is expected to streamline the recruitment process and target areas of greatest need.
The announcement has been met with mixed reactions from residents and stakeholders. While many laud the government’s commitment to tackling staffing shortages, others have raised concerns about the sustainability of such initiatives.
A teacher in Ilorin, who preferred to remain anonymous, praised the plan but urged the
Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration has often highlighted education as a cornerstone of its developmental agenda. The recruitment drive is one of several interventions aimed at improving literacy rates and empowering youths with skills for the future.
As the application process unfolds, many will be watching to see how this ambitious plan impacts Kwara’s education landscape.
