FTC Yaba Principal Mrs. A. O. Ajayi honours serving teachers and retired staff at the 2026 World Teachers’ Day celebration.

The Director/Principal of Federal Technical College (FTC), Yaba, Lagos, Mrs. A. O. Ajayi, has called for improved teachers' welfare, continuous professional development and greater recognition of educators, describing these as essential to transforming education and preparing young people for the future. Speaking at the event, she noted that everyone owes their success to a teacher who once believed in them, and stressed that those who shape the next generation must themselves be well cared for.

According to her, teachers deserve better welfare so they can teach with peace of mind, as well as opportunities to keep learning and growing so they do not fall behind in a changing world. She added that teachers should also be openly and regularly appreciated, urging all stakeholders to show educators how much they are valued.

She made the call on Monday, 5 October 2026, during the College’s World Teachers’ Day celebration and recognition of retired staff at the Multipurpose Hall, FTC Yaba. The event brought together the SBMC Chairman, Prof. T. V. Bakare; PTA Chairman, Mrs. Lisa Nnaji; Chairman of the Old Students’ Association, Engr. Francis Redemi; members of the College management, staff, retirees, institutional partners, and students.

Speaking on the Federal Ministry of Education’s theme, “Transforming the Teaching Profession for Africa’s Future,” and UNESCO’s 60th-anniversary theme, “Standing with Teachers: 60 Years of Protecting the Profession, Advancing Its Status and Shaping Our Futures,” Mrs. Ajayi described teaching as a noble calling that shapes individuals, institutions, and nations.

She noted that teachers do more than impart knowledge; they also develop character, promote discipline, nurture talents, and equip students with the skills required for responsible citizenship and productive careers.

The Principal emphasized the need for teachers to embrace continuous learning, digital skills, and innovative teaching methods to meet the changing demands of education. She particularly highlighted the importance of professional development in technical institutions, where educators must remain aligned with industry requirements and the evolving world of work.

Mrs. Ajayi called for improved remuneration, working conditions, healthcare, career progression, and retirement benefits for teachers. She acknowledged the sacrifices educators make through extra lessons, assessment, student supervision, and mentoring, often beyond regular working hours. She stressed that appreciating teachers must go beyond annual celebrations to include practical measures that protect their dignity, improve their welfare, and enable them to perform effectively. She also urged students to honour their teachers through respect, discipline, hard work, and excellent academic performance, noting that teachers play a vital role in preparing future professionals, leaders, and innovators.

A major highlight of the celebration was the recognition of retired staff whose contributions in teaching, administration, technical services, maintenance, and other areas had supported the growth and development of FTC Yaba.

Mrs. Ajayi commended the retirees for their dedication and professionalism, noting that their service had helped preserve the College’s values and traditions. She described retirement as a new chapter of rest, reflection, and fulfilment, encouraging retirees to continue sharing their experience and knowledge through mentorship and community service. She also prayed for their good health, long life, financial stability, peace of mind, and fulfilment.

Mrs. Ajayi highlighted the importance of sustaining the College’s tradition of excellence, reflected in its motto: “In FTC, Yaba, only the best is good enough.” She called for continued collaboration among management, teachers, parents, students, old students, government, and institutional partners to build an environment where teachers thrive and students excel. She commended serving teachers for their resilience and dedication, congratulated retirees on their meritorious service, and prayed for God’s continued blessings upon the College community, Nigeria, and Africa.

The celebration reaffirmed FTC Yaba’s commitment to recognizing educators, promoting professional development, improving teachers’ welfare, and honouring the contributions of retired staff.

She concluded with the school slogan; "In FTC, Yaba, only the best is good enough"!