Teachers in Cross River State have called on the state government to improve their welfare packages, stressing that better remuneration and working conditions are key to enhancing productivity and quality education delivery.
The teachers, who spoke under the umbrella of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) during this year’s World Teachers’ Day celebration in Calabar, expressed concern over unpaid allowances, poor infrastructure in schools, and the lack of teaching materials that have hampered effective learning.
Speaking at the event, the NUT Chairman in Cross River State, Comrade Emmanuel Ebong, noted that despite their dedication to nurturing the next generation, many teachers continue to face hardship due to irregular payment of salaries, non-promotion, and inadequate incentives.
“Our teachers are the bedrock of the educational system, yet they suffer from neglect. A well-motivated teacher will give his or her best, but when welfare is poor, productivity naturally declines.”
He appealed to Governor Bassey Otu to prioritize the education sector by addressing the lingering issues affecting teachers’ welfare. According to him, providing better incentives, timely promotions, and training opportunities will greatly improve morale and teaching standards in public schools.
Another teacher, Mrs. Grace Bassey, lamented that many educators struggle to meet basic needs, making it difficult to remain focused in class. “Some of us teach with passion, but the system frustrates us. We urge the government to remember that no nation can rise above the quality of its teachers.”
In response, the state Commissioner for Education, Dr. Stephen Odey, assured teachers that the government is committed to improving their welfare. He noted that ongoing reforms in the education sector aim to enhance teaching conditions and reward performance.
“We recognize the challenges teachers face, and the state government is working on a comprehensive welfare package that will address salary arrears, promotion issues, and training.”
The celebration, which had the theme “Teachers: Shaping the Future of Education,” also featured awards for outstanding educators across the state, cultural displays, and solidarity marches to advocate for better recognition of the teaching profession.
Teachers urged the government to match words with action, emphasizing that improved welfare will not only boost productivity but also reduce the growing trend of teachers leaving the profession for better opportunities elsewhere.
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