Nigerian teachers across the country are now competing for a massive ₦51.6 million prize pool in the latest edition of the Maltina Teacher of the Year competition — a national education contest aimed at recognising and rewarding outstanding educators.
This development has sparked excitement within the education sector, with many calling it a much-needed morale booster amid ongoing challenges in the teaching profession.
According to the organisers, the 2024 edition of the competition will reward the best teacher with ₦5 million in cash, a capacity development training abroad, and a block of classrooms for their school. Other top finalists will also receive cash prizes and certificates of recognition.
The initiative, now in its 10th cycle, is sponsored by Nigerian Breweries-Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Education.
“Teachers are the builders of the nation. This contest recognises their sacrifices and aims to restore pride to the classroom,” said Mr. Uche Onwuchekwa, a representative of the education trust fund, at the Lagos launch ceremony.
Teachers, Parents, and Students React
Reactions across campuses and communities have been positive, with many describing the competition as timely.
Mrs. Adebayo Kafayat, a secondary school teacher in Ogun State, told Trending School News:
“We’ve been neglected for too long. This prize shows that someone out there still values us.”
A final-year education student at UNN, Chuka Emmanuel, said:
“I hope they televise it like Big Brother. People need to see the kind of work teachers really do.”
However, some education analysts cautioned that such contests cannot replace systemic reforms like improved salaries, training, and working conditions.
What Teachers Must Know: How to Apply
The nomination and application process is open until August 2024.
Eligible teachers from both public and private secondary schools can apply by filling out the online form on www.maltinateacheroftheyear.com or submitting physical entries to designated centres nationwide.
Entries will be reviewed by a panel of judges, with state-level winners announced before the grand finale in October 2024, to be held in Abuja.
The Maltina Teacher of the Year award isn’t just about money. It shines a light on the dedication and impact of Nigerian educators — especially in a time when the profession faces brain drain, low motivation, and infrastructure gaps.
“If we want better WAEC and JAMB results, we must invest in teachers,” said education consultant, Dr. Uche Nnaji.
As the contest heats up, all eyes are on who will emerge as Nigeria’s best teacher — and whether this national recognition will inspire wider investment in education.
