The Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) has announced the recruitment of 5,500 new teachers in line with the directive of the state Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki.
This move is aimed at filling teaching vacancies and enhancing the quality of education in primary and junior secondary schools across the State.
Executive Chairman of Edo SUBEB, Ozavize Salami, disclosed on Friday in Benin that the recruitment was part of efforts to address teacher shortages and improve educational outcomes. Out of nearly 20,000 applications received, 16,038 candidates were shortlisted for computer-based tests and interviews.
Salami emphasized that the new recruits, who underwent a rigorous selection process, will be deployed to various local government areas to meet specific needs in the education sector. She highlighted that this initiative underscores Governor Obaseki’s commitment to delivering quality education.
Significantly, over 70 percent of the recruits are former EdoSTAR fellows who have been promoted from trainee positions. These fellows, initially earning a minimum wage, recently saw their salaries increased from N40,000 to N70,000 in May 2024.
Among the new hires, 2,500 will be appointed as permanent government teachers, while 3,000 will fill EdoSTAR positions and begin a new three-year fellowship. Additionally, 125 experienced education managers will be recruited to support the EdoBEST programme.
This recruitment drive is aligned with Obaseki’s strategy to build on educational reforms and improve learning outcomes for approximately 400,000 students in state-run basic schools.