Cultivating Change: Insights into Talent, Character, and Purpose in Education and Beyond

Over the past three years, I have had the privilege of working in a dynamic environment that has afforded me the opportunity to engage and interact with a diverse range of individuals from various parts of the country.

In my role, I hold the responsibility of making crucial decisions regarding the selection of talents, particularly within the realm of teaching. Each year presents its own set of challenges, uncertainties, and opportunities for growth. This year was no exception, as our objectives were ambitious. When your mission revolves around the widespread mobilization of passionate educational leaders, the complexity of selecting the most suitable candidates becomes apparent.

Throughout my journey in this role, I’ve encountered intriguing aspects that I am eager to share.?

1. Nigeria has Remarkable Talents: Undoubtedly, our greatest asset as a nation is our people. In my engagements, a recurring highlight has been the profound depth of knowledge and skills possessed by our young people. Nigerians exude a unique essence—marked by ambition and an irresistible can-do spirit—that distinguishes us and elevates any workspace.

Despite the prevalence of negative media narratives spotlighting criminal activities, my experiences have illuminated a far different reality. I've had the privilege of connecting with threefold more individuals who embody excellence and positivity.

2. Attitude and Character outweigh Technical Skills: No matter how brilliant, skilled, or talented a person may be, if a recruit is greatly lacking in character, their potential contributions can be overshadowed. While technical skills are undoubtedly essential for performing specific tasks, it's the individual's attitude and character that shape how those skills are applied within a team or organization.

3. Many are Defying the ‘Japa’ Trend with Local Effort: Amidst the prevailing japa wave and syndrome that has prompted a lot of Nigerians to seek better opportunities abroad, a significant portion of individuals have resolved to stay back and revitalize our fractured systems. It’s assuring to know that not everyone is seeking an escape from a system that has failed them and more so, heartening to learn about the efforts made to foster change even in modest ways, within their immediate communities.?

4. There are Deeper Layers, Beyond Passion: To attract and retain exceptional talents in the teaching profession, it would take more than passion, which many of our teachers claim to have. It is not news that the world is currently grappling with a growing shortage of teachers. I believe that the solution is within reach. By implementing the right policies that address teacher compensation,? enhanced working conditions, and ongoing professional developments, the global education systems have what it takes to attract and equitably deploy some of the best talents into the teaching profession. Passion alone won't suffice to retain these promising educators in our classrooms.

5. Purpose is sometimes found in the place of service. There’s a certain degree of clarity that is gifted to us when we are actively serving others. I have seen how service can turn into a launchpad for the realization of our most cherished ambitions.? I have come to the conclusion that the act of giving not only benefits others but propels us toward our own aspirations.

There’s more that I want to share, but I’ll leave it here for now.?

Congratulations to the incoming cohort who made it into the Teach For Nigeria Fellowship!

I am pumped for the incredible journey that awaits you.?

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