Human Capital Development: Edo State University Conducts Capacity Building Workshop for Academic Staff on 21st Century Teaching Techniques

Our reporter

Edo State University Uzairue has embarked on a two-day intensive capacity-building workshop aimed at equipping its academic staff with modern teaching techniques.

The workshop, held at the Aliko Dangote Auditorium, commenced on Tuesday, with the primary goal of improving teaching methods and enhancing academic performance in line with global educational standards.

In his opening remarks, the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dawood Egbefo, stressed the importance of continuous professional development for educators. He noted that despite the years spent acquiring knowledge in colleges and universities, teachers need to regularly update their skills to meet the ever-evolving demands of the 21st-century classroom.

“No single period of study is sufficient to fully prepare teachers for the complexities of the classroom,” Egbefo stated. “This workshop aims to ensure our academic staff are well-equipped with modern techniques that will foster academic growth and better learning outcomes as we enter the new semester.”

The two-day workshop is designed to introduce academic staff to innovative teaching techniques, focusing on structuring lessons in ways that enhance student engagement and retention.

Prof. Egbefo added that the training would provide a solid foundation for the upcoming academic session, preparing educators for the challenges ahead.

A keynote speaker, Prof. Patrick Oviasuyi, delivered a presentation on “Work Ethics in the University Environment for Academic Staff.” He highlighted the critical role that work ethics play in the growth and sustainability of educational institutions.

According to Oviasuyi, adherence to professional norms and moral standards is essential for institutional success.

In another session, Dr. Orhare Osumah, in his presentation titled “Techniques for Improving Academic Staff Performance”, outlined several strategies for boosting the effectiveness of educators.

He emphasised the need for continuous investment in staff training, mentorship programs, a supportive work environment, and regular feedback mechanisms to ensure academic excellence.

Guest lecturer, Prof. Godwin Okogun from Ambrose Ali University, called on the Nigerian government to address the issue of underfunding in tertiary institutions.

He stressed that the lack of sufficient funding hampers teaching, learning, and research, contributing to the declining quality of education across the country. “The government must inject more resources into the system to elevate our universities to global standards,” Okogun said.

Additionally, Dr. Ayodeji Makinde, the Director of ICT at Edo State University, spoke on the importance of integrating teaching aids in modern education.

He pointed out that visual and practical aids significantly enhance students’ comprehension, bridging the gap between theoretical concepts and practical understanding.

The Director of Professional Training and Development, Dr. Anthony Iyoha, reiterated that the workshop was part of the university’s commitment to becoming a world-class institution.

He urged the academic staff to absorb the insights from the training to positively impact their students and elevate the university’s academic profile.