A teachers’ teacher

• How I prepared 41 students to obtain As in WASSCE –Ajibode, Starfield College

Starfield College, Iju, Fagba, Lagos,  recently celebrated one of its teachers, Mrs. Olayinka Ajibode, for the excellent performances of her students. All her 41 students had A1s in the May/June 2023 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

She spoke with Daily Sun. Excerpts:

Why did you take to teaching?

I took the teaching profession because I want to impact knowledge in both adults and children. I realised this when I was in secondary school in SS3 while preparing for the West African Examinations Council (WAEC). I taught some of my mates Mathematics and they got it. That made me fulfilled and happy. So I thought, why not?

What has been your experience?

I’ve been teaching for five years. Three years as a Home Economics and Food and Nutrition teacher I had a break because of childbirth. Learned a lot along the way, especially what teaching methods work best with various topics and students. Also how to deal with problems with discipline, something every teacher faces in this district.

Though, it wasn’t always an easy ride. I experienced a few really bad days. But when I look at the bigger picture and all the good things that happened with the students, I still see teaching as my mission and as a dream job to have.

Can you remember an unforgettable experience in the classroom?

I have a lot of them but this particular one is the top of the list. On this particular day, I was teaching a class and a student did not have a textbook, so I sent him out to get one. The student never came back for the class. I disciplined him afterwards and made him sit at the front seat during every lesson, which I knew he wasn’t comfortable with.

Should teachers expect their rewards in heaven or the earth?

On earth and the ultimate reward can be in heaven.

Just one year in the college and you produced 41As, how did you do it?

I will say God did it. To be honest as a new teacher, it took me a while to gain my balance in the new environment and among new students. However, with hard work, students involvement in class, class assessment and class presentation I established a calm not tensed yet disciplined environment for my students to ensure my learning objectives are achieved. Often times, I encourage them on individual reading so after classes they can read more.

Were you surprised when all your students obtained As in WASSCE?

Few of them surprised me actually. I remember putting eyes on these few more. Though not easy but thanks to Almighty God.

Before the exams, what were your expectations?

I was expecting around 30-35 students to give me A1 because I was sure of the work I put in already.

Were you under pressure to produce good result in the WASSCE?

I wouldn’t call it pressure. I will say an evidence to show I have not been coming to work to play has to be provided.

What were the reactions of the students and their parents?

For the parents, I really cannot say. But for the students they were all happy because some students have just that A1 in all their subjects.

Generally, are teachers treated well by the government?

Hmmm, they can do better than what they are presently doing.

How much do you think an average teacher should earn?

According to the way the economy is moving an average teacher should earn between #120,000 and #150,000 to for their needs and efficiency in their profession.

What are your educational qualifications?

I have a Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta. Postgraduate diploma in Education from Shehu Shagari Colledge of Education, Sokoto State.

Can you tell us your family background?

I belong to a nuclear and middle class family. There are five members in my family including me. I have one younger brother and one older brother. My father used to be a businessman before he passed on and my mother is a trader. My younger brother is a computer engineer and my older brother is into business.