BY OSITA BIOSE
AS we celebrate Delta’s 33rd anniversary, it’s only fitting that we honor Comrade Okotie’s contributions. His dedication to education and unionism is a beacon of hope for a brighter, more prosperous future in Nigeria’s education sector.
Among the many heroes of Delta State’s educational journey, Comrade Titus Okotie stands tall. A veteran educator and unionist, his leadership within the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has left an indelible mark on the state’s education sector. His tireless efforts and visionary approach have transformed the lives of teachers and students alike.
Giant Strides as NUT Chairman
As a two-time NUT Chairman, Comrade Okotie’s tenure was nothing short of transformative. As NUT Chairman, his tenure was marked by numerous achievements that transformed the education sector in Delta State. One of his most notable accomplishments was improving teachers’ welfare. Through successful negotiations, he secured better salaries, benefits, and working conditions for teachers across the state, significantly enhancing their lives.
Under his leadership, the NUT introduced various training programs, workshops, and seminars aimed at boosting teachers’ professional skills. This capacity building initiative empowered educators to deliver quality education, ensuring students received the best possible learning experience.
Comrade Okotie also played a crucial role in shaping education policies that emphasized student-centered learning and quality education. His contributions to policy reforms have had a lasting impact on the state’s education system.
Furthermore, he revitalized the NUT by strengthening its structures and enhancing its effectiveness as a champion of teachers’ rights. His exceptional leader- ship skills were evident in his ability to resolve disputes and conflicts, promoting harmony within the union and with government agencies.
Comrade Okotie forged meaningful partnerships with government bodies, civil society, and international organizations to advance education in Delta State. He also led a successful membership drive, empowering teachers to take active roles within the union.
His legacy continues to inspire future generations of educators and unionists. Comrade Okotie’s commitment to education and the welfare of teachers has left a lasting impact on Delta State’s educational landscape, ensuring that his influence will be felt for years to come.
Additional Achievements
Beyond these accomplishments, Comrade Okotie also spearheaded several key initiatives. Comrade Titus Okotie’s visionary leadership led to the establishment of Teachers’ Resource Centers, providing modern educational materials and technology to support educators in their noble profession. He also introduced Teachers’ Awards, a merit-based recognition program that celebrated outstanding educators and promoted excellence within the profession.
A champion of inclusive education, Comrade Okotie advocated for the support and inclusion of students with disabilities, ensuring they received the necessary resources to succeed. He further enhanced teachers’ skills by facilitating exchange programs and training opportunities with global organizations, fostering international partnerships that benefited the education sector.
Comrade Okotie’s commitment to teachers’ welfare was evident in his enforcement of retirement plans, providing financial security for educators after years of dedicated service. He also developed robust conflict resolution mechanisms, fostering harmony within the educational sector and ensuring that disputes were resolved efficiently.
A staunch advocate for gender equality, Comrade Okotie supported women in leadership roles within the education sector, empowering them to take on key positions.
He launched community outreach programs that engaged parents and communities in supporting education and teacher development, recognizing the importance of collaboration in achieving educational excellence.
Comrade Okotie also introduced digital literacy initiatives, equipping teachers with the necessary skills to effectively integrate technology into modern class- rooms. His legacy projects, including the maintenance of schools, guest houses, libraries, and educational facilities, have left a lasting impact on Delta’s educational landscape, a testament to his dedication to education and teachers’ welfare.
As we reflect on the state of education in Nigeria, it is clear that our teachers are enduring a kind of martyrdom. They are expected to perform miracles with little to no support, and their patience is wearing thin. The government must act now to address these issues before it is too late. As the saying goes, “A stitch in time saves nine.” Let us not wait until it is too late to save the future of our nation.
A Final Salute
As the Delta State celebrates 33, let us remember the courage and perseverance of our teachers. Despite working under the most excruciating conditions, they continue to inspire our youth. But let us also heed the warning: teachers’ patience has been stretched to its limit. If nothing is done soon, the consequences could be dire.
To the teachers: Never lose hope. To the government: There’s still time to make things right. A stitch in time saves nine.
