From Owen Akenzua, Asaba
In a bid to enhance the quality of mathematics and science education at the basic level, Delta State Universal Basic Education Board, SUBEB, in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC, has commenced a five-day intensive capacity-building training for 450 mathematics and science teachers under the Strengthening Mathematics and Science Education, SMASE, initiative.
The training programme, which runs from August 4-8 is being held simultaneously across the three senatorial districts.
The designated training centres are Government Model Secondary School, GRA, Asaba for Delta North; Government College, Ughelli for Delta Central; and College of Education, Warri for Delta South, and will commence at 9am daily.
SMASE, an initiative of Japan International Cooperation Agency, JICA, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Education, is designed to improve teaching and learning of mathematics and science at the basic education level using ASEI-PDSI (Activity, Student, Experiment, Improvisation, Plan, Do, See, Improve) approach.
The focus is on shifting from traditional and teacher-centred methods to a more participatory and learner-centred model.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Director of Delta SUBEB, Mrs Eru Ezefili commended the visionary leadership of the Board Chairman, Samuel Mariere, whom she described as a father figure with a heart of gold and a true friend to teachers. She acknowledged the presence of dignitaries and stakeholders who turned out to support the noble initiative.
In his remarks, the Director of Teacher Development at UBEC, Abuja, Dr Ossom Ossom lauded the Delta State government for establishing an “enviable board” headed by Mariere.
He also praised the unwavering dedication of teachers, emphasising their critical role in shaping the nation’s future.
