Sterling oil, VCDF celebrate teachers, reach 3,012 students in 2 states
Vcare for Development Foundation (VCDF), with support from Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Ltd. (SEEPCO), has celebrated 190 teachers and reached 3,012 students in five public secondary schools in Akwa Ibom and Delta states.
The initiative was part of activities marking the 2026 World Teachers’ Day, aimed at recognising teachers’ contributions to education and strengthening relationships between educators and learners.
The programme highlighted the impact of VCDF’s Learning Enhancement Programme (LEP), Model School Initiative (MSI) and Transforming Teachers for Tomorrow (T3), which seek to improve learning opportunities and support teachers in underserved communities.
World Teachers’ Day, observed annually on Oct. 5, commemorates the 1966 recommendation of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) concerning the Status of Teachers.
The 2026 theme, “Standing with Teachers: 60 Years of Protecting the Profession, Improving Its Status and Shaping Our Futures,” emphasised the need to recognise educators and strengthen the teaching profession.
The celebrations took place at Community Secondary School, Iko, Eastern Obolo; Comprehensive High School, Edemaya, Ikot Abasi; Air Force Comprehensive High School, Uyo; Army Day Secondary School, Ibagwa, Abak, all in Akwa Ibom; and Girls’ Secondary School, Kwale, Delta.
The activities were organised in collaboration with school authorities and education stakeholders to promote shared responsibility for improving teaching and learning.
Students expressed appreciation to their teachers through a “Tree of Gratitude” and personalised greeting cards, while teachers shared experiences about their professional journeys and the motivation behind their choice of career.
Other activities included debates, cultural performances, interactive games, appreciation sessions and student-led presentations designed to strengthen bonds between teachers and learners.
Mrs Ameneke Theresa Nkemjika, Vice Principal, Administration, Girls’ Secondary School, Kwale, said she had spent more than 30 years in teaching and found fulfilment in imparting knowledge and watching her students progress.
“I appreciate Delta State Government, Sterling Oil and VCDF for this programme,” she said.
Another teacher at the school, Mrs Otuagoma Beatrice, said the recognition made her feel valued and appreciated.
“It means we are valued, and we are important. I felt happy when the students mentioned my name; it shows the students appreciate what we do,” she said.
Similarly, Mrs Regina Aniekan Jack, Principal of Comprehensive High School, Edemaya, expressed appreciation to the Akwa Ibom State Government and VCDF for recognising teachers and supporting their contribution to children’s development.
She stressed that educators deserved appreciation not only on special occasions but throughout the year for their role in shaping future generations.
Mr Michael Akpan, a French teacher at Air Force Comprehensive School, Uyo, said his students had inspired him to pursue continuous learning, research and professional development.
He explained that students’ questions, diverse learning needs and perspectives had challenged him to explore new ideas and improve his teaching methods.
Students also welcomed the initiative, describing it as an opportunity to publicly acknowledge the commitment and sacrifices of their teachers.
A senior secondary school student at Girls’ Secondary School, Kwale, said she was delighted by the celebration, adding that teachers deserved regular recognition for their contributions to society.
