By Heapnews
Nigerian teachers should be transparent about students’ academic weaknesses and uphold professional standards, the Regalo Hope Foundation (RHF) said at a seminar marking World Teachers’ Day.
The foundation’s founder and project director, Dr Chinenye Onuorah, said teachers needed to inform parents about learning difficulties early enough for appropriate support to be provided.
Speaking at the 2026 RHF Educators Seminar at the foundation’s Resource and Learning Centre on Saturday, Onuorah also cautioned parents against transferring children between schools or sending them to so-called miracle centres in pursuit of better grades.
“Parents should work with teachers to address learning gaps, rather than moving children around in search of grades that may not reflect their abilities,” she said.
She said the practice could weaken students’ commitment to learning and encourage reliance on shortcuts rather than academic effort.
Jane Obodoekea, RHF director of operations, said examination malpractice among teachers undermined the standards they were expected to uphold.
She cited cases in which educators allegedly assisted students during examinations or provided leaked examination materials, questioning the values such conduct passed on to learners.
Obodoekea said poor administration, corruption and ineffective school practices also threatened professional standards and public confidence in teaching.
She called for a framework that could be adapted and applied across educational institutions to help teachers maintain professional standards and prepare students for the future.
The seminar also featured the induction of 83 educators into the RHF Teachers Leadership Academy, which offers courses in teaching applications, learning and research, emotional intelligence, leadership, communication and personal presentation.
According to Obodoekea, the programme also covers wellness, fitness and health, with the aim of improving teachers’ capacity and classroom experiences.
Adelano Tolulope, a leadership academy associate and seminar participant, said teachers’ welfare and professional status needed greater attention.
She also called for stronger measures against examination malpractice, adding that pressure from school owners and parental support for academic shortcuts could undermine students’ reading habits.
“Teachers’ welfare, stronger policies against examination malpractice and parental support for reading culture are essential to restoring the dignity and glory of the teaching profession,” she said.
Another participant, Elijah Akhabigimhe, said the seminar had provided useful insights into challenges facing educators and the need for continued discussion about the profession’s development.
The seminar was held as part of activities marking World Teachers’ Day, observed annually on Oct. 5.
The 2026 commemoration highlights 60 years of the 1966 International Labour Organization and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization Recommendation concerning Teachers’ Status, which addresses teachers’ working conditions and professional standing.