NSUBEB chairman Dr Kassim says many teachers neglect duties and weaken education in Nasarawa.
He urges them to take classrooms seriously and help children learn properly again.
The Executive Chairman of the Nasarawa State Universal Basic Education Board (NSUBEB), Dr Kassim Muhammad Kassim, has expressed concern over the poor attitude of many primary school teachers in the state, accusing them of neglecting their duties and turning schools into places for gossip instead of learning.
Speaking during a gathering of members of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Dr Kassim said frequent visits to schools show that many teachers are not in classrooms during school hours. According to him, teachers are often seen sitting under trees chatting, while some female teachers spend time breaking egusi when they are supposed to be teaching pupils.
He described the behaviour as harmful to the future of children in the state, stressing that many pupils struggle with basic reading and writing skills because teachers no longer take teaching seriously.
Dr Kassim urged teachers to respect the teaching profession and avoid actions that would weaken the educational system. He reminded them of the support the state government has provided since Governor Abdullahi Sule assumed office in 2019, including ending the long-standing issue of percentage salary payments and ensuring that promotions are implemented.
He urged the NUT leadership and teachers to appreciate the improvements in their welfare and work harder to deliver quality education. He also appealed to the union members to elect leaders who will not only represent them but also encourage them to carry out their responsibilities properly.
The NSUBEB chairman further condemned acts of theft involving school furniture supplied by the government, noting that some teachers reportedly steal desks and chairs and sell them to private schools. He said such behavior is unacceptable and prevents pupils from learning in a supportive environment.
Dr Kassim called for renewed dedication to teaching, saying the progress of the state depends on empowering children with proper education and discipline.
