BY DAYO ADESULU

In recognition of the significant roles of primary school teachers in basic education delivery and child moulding, Dufil Prima Foods Plc, makers of Indomie Instant Noodles has organised a one-day seminar for more than 2000 teachers in public and private schools in Lagos State.

The 2012 edition which was held at the Main Auditorium of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) recently was part of the main thrust of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative in the area of educational support and development.

On the rationale behind the 4th edition of the annual seminar, the Public Relations and Event Manager, Mr. Tope Ashiwaju, said it was observed that most of the company’s activities were centered on children at the expense of the gatekeepers, who have been making things happen.

“We appreciate the fact that teachers are one of the most important tools behind the growth of a nation, especially at the primary level when children are beginning to learn and understand our values and culture.”

He said the company believes that one of the ways to show its appreciation to teachers for all their support over the years was by constantly organising seminars and workshops specifically for them.

“This is also in line with the focus of the company’s CSR which places high priority on educational development of the Nigerian children,” Ashiwaju said.

A facilitator, Dr. Christy Omotuyole of the Department of Arts and Social Sciences Education at the University of Lagos whose lecture was titled The Montessori Theory and Application in Nigerian Classrooms, stressed that children should be given the opportunity to enjoy themselves and also explore their environment thereby increasing their level of self confidence, self belief and independence.

“The teacher’s first duty is to watch over the environment, and this takes precedence over all the rest. Its influence is indirect, but unless it is well done there will be no effective and permanent results of any kind, be it physical, intellectual or spiritual” she said.

Another facilitator, the Chief Executive Officer of Brandels Communications Outfit, Mr. Olufemi Ashiwaju advised teachers to be self motivated and to constantly upgrade their knowledge and competence level without necessarily waiting for an external push.

“Laying a sound basis for scientific and reflective thinking requires a positive mental attitude, which is very important in every aspect of teaching cycle”.