As we celebrate World Teachers Day, l congratulate all the teachers globally. As an educationist & as one who has spent years in this sector, l must confess that l do not think that the TRCN is fulfilling purpose. We live in an era where individuals & groups who have their way through the corridors of power can have policies imposed on others. For instance, In Lagos State, teachers have been mandated to register with TRCN- while it is a good policy to have proper documentation/statistics of teachers in the country, but truth be told, what is the benefit of such registration to the teacher(especially those in private schools)? This body doesn't help with job placement of teachers, it doesn't fight for the rights of teachers, etc. Teachers would prefer a TRCN that can draw government's attention to teachers' plights, press them to initiate policies that will cover minimum wage for teachers in the private sector also, bearing in mind that they are all doing the same job. Most teachers aren't given Appointment Letters, those that are given are lied to, etc. B.Ed holders are earning N15,000 - N25,000? How can they have a successful life? Can they ever feed well, meet up with their social obligations, let alone buy a car like people in order professions? The problems are too numerous to mention, with no one to run to for help. The Council has to wake up & work! l am a School Principal & in communication with teachers around the country as well as many outside the country so l know what is happening. If Nigeria must be better then teachers' welfare is key to building a solid foundation-the TRCN cannot dare stand aloof while forcing teachers' to register.
The doctors & other professionals have fought for theirs, what are we waiting for?