The Edo State Government has announced the absorption of 4,000 volunteer teachers under the EdoStar Teaching Programme and recruitment of 500 new teachers to strengthen the state’s education system.

Dr Paddy Iyamu, Commissioner for Education said this in Benin during the 2025 World Teachers’ Day celebration, themed, “Recasting Teaching as a Collaborative Profession.”

Mr Iyamu said the move reflected Gov. Monday Okpebholo’s commitment to rewarding dedication and addressing dearth of teachers in public primary and secondary schools.

“Come October 15, we are going to present letters of appointment to about 4,000 EdoStar volunteer teachers who have been teaching for the past three years.

“In addition, the government will recruit another 500 teachers into the system,” he said.

The commissioner noted that the gesture would end the era of prolonged probation for volunteer teachers and help bridge the manpower gap in schools across the state.

“Even an apprentice does not train for three years without confirmation,” he added, assuring that the teachers would receive their appointment letters at a public ceremony in Government House.

Mr Iyamu said the state had built over 68 schools in less than one year and trained more than 6,000 teachers in digital and technical skills, including robotics and artificial intelligence, to enhance classroom delivery.

“When we build schools without teachers, they are just empty buildings.

“We are investing in people who will shape our children’s future,” he said.

The commissioner also announced that the government had institutionalised Teachers’ Fitness Day, to be marked every Oct. 4, to promote teachers’ well-being.