Responding to the directive from Governor Godwin Obaseki, the Edo State Universal Basic Education Board has successfully recruited 5,500 teachers to meet staffing needs in schools.
Ozavize Salami, the Executive Chairman of Edo SUBEB, announced this development in Benin, the state capital, emphasizing that the recruitment drive aims to enhance the quality of education delivery.
She highlighted that after a rigorous selection process, these new teachers will address the identified gaps in primary and junior secondary schools statewide.
A total of 19,931 applications were received for teaching positions, out of which 16,038 candidates underwent computer-based tests and interviews.
Salami further noted that the recruited teachers possess skills and expertise necessary to bridge the existing gaps and will be deployed across all local government areas.
She expressed, “This recruitment of 5,500 teachers is part of our commitment to address the teacher shortage in primary and junior secondary schools, demonstrating Governor Obaseki’s dedication to providing quality education in Edo State.
“The majority of these new teachers are young and dynamic, bringing fresh energy to the education system. Governor Obaseki’s initiatives reinforce Edo’s position as a pioneer in education reform, setting a benchmark nationally and regionally.”
She highlighted that a significant aspect of the hiring process is that over 70% of the EdoSTAR fellows, who started as trainee teachers two years ago, have now transitioned to full-time government teaching positions.
These fellows have seen an increase in their minimum wage salary, from N40,000 to N70,000 since May 2024, benefitting from recent wage adjustments in the state.
Of the 5,500 recruits, 2,500 will serve as permanent government teachers, while 3,000 will occupy EdoSTAR roles and embark on a three-year fellowship program.
An additional 125 experienced education managers will be brought on board to support the transition and sustainability of the EdoBEST program.
The recruitment aligns with Governor Obaseki’s vision to strengthen the program’s achievements and continue enhancing learning outcomes for approximately 400,000 children in state-owned primary and junior secondary schools across Edo State.