Vcare for Development Foundation (VCDF), with support from Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited (SEEPCO), has marked the 2026 World Teachers’ Day with activities reaching 3,012 students and 190 teachers across five public secondary schools in Akwa Ibom and Delta states.

The celebration spotlighted the foundation’s Learning Enhancement Programme (LEP), Model School Initiative (MSI) and Transforming Teachers for Tomorrow (T3), which aim to improve learning opportunities and strengthen support for educators in local communities.

World Teachers’ Day is observed annually on October 5 to commemorate the 1966 recommendation on the Status of Teachers by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The 2026 theme, “Standing with Teachers: 60 Years of Protecting the Profession, Improving Its Status and Shaping Our Futures,” underscored the importance of recognising educators and supporting quality education.

VCDF organised activities at Community Secondary School, Iko, Eastern Obolo; Comprehensive High School, Edemaya, Ikot Abasi; Air Force Comprehensive High School, Uyo; and Army Day Secondary School, Ibagwa, Abak, all in Akwa Ibom State. Girls’ Secondary School, Kwale, in Delta State, also participated.

The events were carried out in partnership with school management teams and education stakeholders, promoting collaboration and shared responsibility in recognising teachers and their contributions.

Students honoured their teachers through a “Tree of Gratitude” initiative and personalised greeting cards, while educators recounted their professional journeys and the experiences that motivated them to enter the teaching profession.

The programme also featured debates, cultural performances, appreciation sessions, interactive games and student-led presentations aimed at strengthening relationships between teachers and learners.

Several teachers welcomed the recognition and praised VCDF for organising the celebration.

Mrs. Ameneke Theresa Nkemjika, Vice Principal, Administration, at Girls’ Secondary School, Kwale, said, “I have been teaching for more than 30 years now, and I have really enjoyed this job. It helps in impacting knowledge, and it has been joyful seeing my students progress in life. I appreciate Delta State Government, Sterling Oil and VCDF for this programme”

Another teacher at the school, Mrs. Otuagoma Beatrice, expressed happiness at being recognised by her students.

“Really, I am excited. It means we are valued, and we are important. I felt happy when the students mentioned my name; it shows the students appreciate what we do,” she said.

Mrs. Regina Aniekan Jack, Principal of Comprehensive High School, Edemaya, also acknowledged the support provided by the foundation and the state government.

“We appreciate Akwa Ibom State Government, and VCDF  for celebrating and appreciating teachers, not just today, but every day, for the important role they play in shaping the lives of our children. Thank you for recognising teachers and for your continued support.’’

Mr. Michael Akpan, a French teacher at Airforce Comprehensive School, Uyo, spoke about how teaching had influenced his professional development and approach to learning.

“I am delighted to work in this special school, as the teaching profession has strengthened my commitment to continuous learning, research, and professional development. During my first five years in the profession, my students inspired me to become more studious, inquisitive, and research oriented. Their questions, diverse learning needs, and unique perspectives continually challenged me to explore new ideas, and improve my teaching methods”

Students also used the occasion to acknowledge the influence of their teachers on their lives and future prospects. Several said educators deserved regular recognition for their dedication and service.

A Senior Secondary student at Girls’ Secondary School, Kwale, said, “I am very excited and happy because we are celebrating with our teachers. Teachers should be celebrated every time.’’

Beyond the annual celebration, VCDF’s LEP, MSI and T3 initiatives have reached more than 37,863 students and teachers across Akwa Ibom, Delta and Lagos states, expanding access to learning opportunities and quality educational resources.

The foundation said it would continue working with governments, education authorities, schools and institutions beyond its host communities, using Sterling Oil’s Corporate Social Responsibility investment to improve access to quality education across Nigeria

Source: Real News Magazine