A bill seeking for the extension of the retirement age of basic and secondary schools’ teachers from 60 to 65 years has been presented to the National Assembly.
Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, said at a public hearing on the proposed bill that allowing teachers stay longer in the profession was a step in the right direction.
However, this development has thrown educationists into a division – some welcoming the proposal based on a number of reasons and others kicking against it.
Edo State secretary of the Nigeria Union Teachers (NUT), Moni Modesty-Itua, said that the advantages for extension of retiring age limit are far outweigh the disadvantages as it would give experienced teachers more chance to be impactful in a system where skilled teachers have become a veritable tool for private schools.
“As you know, government has not been employing teachers across the country leading to shortage of teachers. So, with the new retirement age, there will be qualified teachers who will handle teaching in matured ways,” the state NUT scribe stated.
He said the bill has potential to improve the standard of education.
The Chairman, Plateau State NUT Comrade Ayuba Gana, who was also at the public hearing, said the move would ensure teacher professional development.
Gana said the bill is welcome because new teachers would easily acquire skills from the experienced ones.
The NUT chairman called on the relevant authorities to do all it takes to ensure speedy passage of the bill.
