The Taraba State Commissioner for Basic Education, Dr. Augustina Godwin, has expressed serious concern over the shortage of science teachers in the state, especially in subjects like Physics and Chemistry. She warned that the situation could have long-term effects on education and the development of key professions in the future.
She raised the alarm during a training programme for Science, Technology, Mathematics and Agriculture (STEMA) teachers held in Jalingo, which brought together teachers from senior secondary schools across the North-East region.
According to her, the low number of qualified science teachers is becoming a major challenge for the education system in Taraba State. She noted that if the trend continues, it could reduce the chances of producing future professionals such as doctors, engineers, and other science-based experts.
Dr. Godwin stressed the need for teachers to encourage more students to develop interest in science subjects, saying this is important for the growth of the state.
She described the situation as dangerous for educational development, adding that urgent action is needed to correct the imbalance in science teaching staff.
To address the problem, she said the state government plans to strengthen the Guidance and Counselling Department in schools to help guide students toward science-related careers. She also promised closer cooperation with the All Nigeria Conference of Principals of Secondary Schools to promote science and technology education.
The training programme was organised by the Office of the Vice President in partnership with the North-East Development Commission. Dr. Godwin praised the initiative, saying continuous training for teachers is necessary to improve classroom delivery and learning outcomes in schools.
Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Regional Development, Mariam Masha, said the programme covers teachers from Gombe, Bauchi, Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, and Taraba States.
She explained that the initiative supports President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and is aimed at closing educational gaps across the region.
Masha added that the programme is designed to equip teachers with digital and technical skills needed for modern teaching, especially in today’s technology-driven world.