Former Minister of Education, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, has stressed the need for a robust education system that teaches character and leadership and others to kick-start Nigeria’s development journey.

She gave the charge at the graduation of the third Cohort of Teach For Nigeria (TFN) fellows in Lagos over the weekend.

Ezekwesili acknowledged that the body was addressing issue of quality teachers as bedrock of any nation. She said the non-governmental organisation had picked the best graduates across the federation, giving them the opportunity to explore and change the state of education in the country.

The activist stated that the most populous black nation needed to reform its education sector and work with like-minded organisations to transform rural communities with experienced teachers to impact the grassroots.

The ex-minister charged the graduates to be focused in transforming Nigeria through the knowledge they have acquired.

In his remarks, TFN’s Chairman, Gbenga Oyebode, urged the fellows’ continued commitment to the fellowship, assuring that the board remains committed to the sustainability of the programme.

The Chief Executive Officer, Folawe Omikunle, said the graduating class of 2021 had shown resilience and strong leadership, even in the face of a global pandemic.

“When COVID-19 completely disrupted our nation’s education system, they navigated the digital divide to ensure teaching and learning continued.

This cohort of fellows, who taught in 29 schools across Ogun State, experienced unprecedented struggle, joy, perseverance and love,” she added.