By Abel Johngold
Over fifty corps members in Warri Zonal Area participated in a training programme on Tuesday, aimed at enhancing their pedagogical skills. The initiative, organized by the Tompolo Foundation in partnership with the Delta State National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), seeks to equip corps members with essential teaching techniques, particularly those posted to rural and riverine communities.
Speaking at the official launch, the Chairman and Founder of Tompolo Foundation, High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to promoting quality education. He emphasized that education remains a cornerstone of social transformation and highlighted the crucial role teachers play in shaping the future of society.
Chief Ekpemupolo, represented by Dr. Paul Bebenimibo, noted that growing up in the creeks of the Niger Delta gave him firsthand experience of the challenges faced by corps members, especially in effectively teaching students in underserved communities. He acknowledged that corps members often fill the gap left by a shortage of teachers in these areas but lack the necessary pedagogical skills to deliver quality education. This, he said, motivated the Tompolo Foundation to collaborate with Delta State NYSC in training corps members to engage students effectively and inspire critical thinking among learners.
Dr. Bebenimibo further revealed that the Tompolo Foundation has been providing corps members serving in rural and riverine areas with stipends, accommodations, and other incentives to encourage their efforts. He stressed that well-trained corps members will leave a lasting impact on their students, fostering a generation better equipped for the future.
Stakeholders Commend the Initiative
The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Rose Ezewu, commended the Tompolo Foundation and Delta NYSC for launching the training programme. Represented by Chief Ejiroghene Erifevieme, she urged other stakeholders to emulate the foundation’s commitment to education.
Similarly, Chief MacDonald Igbaduwei praised the initiative, noting that training corps members posted to rural areas will significantly improve their teaching skills, making learning more engaging for pupils and students.
Expert Insights on Pedagogical Training
A lecture titled “Pedagogical Skills: A Key Imperative for Enhancing Quality Education in Nigeria”, delivered by Dr. Oghenevwede Oyovwi, highlighted the importance of equipping corps members with effective teaching strategies. He thanked the Tompolo Foundation and Delta NYSC for the initiative and stated that the training would enhance corps members’ confidence, improve classroom management, and foster better community engagement.
Training Programme Kick-off
The Director of Education Projects at Tompolo Foundation, Dr. Job Bebenimibo, announced that the training programme would officially commence on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, with an initial batch of 50 corps members.
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) was established on May 22, 1973, by the Nigerian government under the military regime of Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, to promote national unity, self-reliance, and community development.