In a remarkable achievement that has brought pride to Nigeria, Mr. Kayode Adewale, a Mathematics teacher at Imagbon/Imaka Comprehensive High School in Ogun State, has been named one of the top 50 finalists for the prestigious 2025 Global Teacher Prize. This announcement was made on Wednesday via the official website of the Global Teacher Prize and shared widely, including on Punch Newspaper’s official X handle.
Adewale’s recognition is a testament to his innovative approach to education, particularly in a semi-urban setting where most students come from low-income farming families with limited access to quality educational resources. Despite these challenges, Adewale has been hailed for “revolutionizing the classroom experience” and turning barriers into opportunities for learning.
Teaching in an environment where many students primarily use smartphones for entertainment rather than academics, Adewale has shown exceptional creativity and resourcefulness. He integrates local languages such as Yoruba and Hausa into his lessons to simplify complex mathematical concepts, making them relatable and understandable to his students.
According to the organisers, “Through culturally tailored instructional videos and practical examples, he bridged the gap between his students’ linguistic and cultural realities and the academic content, fostering understanding and engagement.” His approach combines Culturally Relevant Pedagogy with Digital Literacy Education, ensuring that his students not only excel academically but also develop essential skills for the modern world.
Recognizing the untapped potential of technology, Adewale has transformed smartphones and other digital tools into invaluable academic resources. By introducing platforms like the Technology-Assisted Management Solution (TAIMS) and educational apps such as Inquiry Learning Space (ILS) and PhET simulation, he has created virtual study groups and hands-on problem-solving sessions. These initiatives have significantly improved his students’ performance in national and regional exams while equipping them with critical 21st-century digital skills.
Adewale’s impact extends far beyond his immediate students. Through his Transformation1090 Initiative, he has trained over 30,000 teachers across the country, empowering them to integrate technology into their teaching methods. This large-scale effort is redefining how education is delivered in underserved communities and creating a ripple effect of positive change in Nigeria’s educational sector.
The Global Teacher Prize, often referred to as the “Nobel Prize for Teaching,” celebrates educators who have made outstanding contributions to the profession. Adewale’s innovative teaching methods, dedication to bridging educational gaps, and commitment to digital literacy have placed him among the elite educators being considered for the $1 million prize.
As Nigeria continues to celebrate this inspiring achievement, Adewale’s story serves as a beacon of hope and a call to action for educators worldwide. His journey demonstrates that with ingenuity, dedication, and a deep understanding of students’ needs, even the most daunting challenges can be overcome.
If he wins, Adewale will join the ranks of exceptional educators globally recognized for their transformative contributions to education. His achievement underscores the potential of Nigerian teachers to compete and excel on the world stage, setting an inspiring example for generations to come.
PIONEER NEWS 