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Opinions of Saturday, 9 December 2023

Columnist: Adama Yahaya

Demanding teachers' TM1 laptops: Refund or redemption

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As the academic landscape continues to evolve and embrace the digital age, it has become increasingly crucial for teachers to possess the necessary technological tools to deliver quality education.

However, the year 2021 saw a disappointment for educators across the country, as promised deductions for teachers' TM1 laptops failed to materialize. Today, we, the collective voice of teachers and their unions, demand a refund or the immediate provision of these essential devices by the government.

The COVID-19 pandemic revealed the importance of technology in education, laying bare the disparities that exist between students and teachers regarding access to digital resources. While some students effortlessly transitioned to online learning, our nation's tireless educators were left behind, struggling to adapt without the necessary tools at their disposal.

The promised TM1 laptops were meant to bridge this gap, ensuring that all teachers had the means to facilitate effective teaching in an increasingly digital educational landscape.

Yet, despite the expectations and assurances, teachers still find themselves without the essential TM1 laptops. These devices would go a long way in enabling educators to create engaging lesson plans, access educational materials, and effectively communicate with their students.

Furthermore, they would empower teachers to maximize their potential, unleashing their creativity and allowing them to explore innovative teaching methods to enhance student learning outcomes.

The government's failure to fulfill its commitment to provide teachers with TM1 laptops is not only a betrayal of trust but also a reflection of the disregard for the crucial role teachers play in our society.

As the backbone of education, teachers have tirelessly adapted to new challenges, tirelessly serving students, often going above and beyond their call of duty. It is disheartening to see their dedication disregarded when it comes to fulfilling this long-overdue promise.

Therefore, we, as teachers', demand action. The government must act swiftly to rectify this oversight and demonstrate its commitment to the education sector by either providing teachers with the promised laptops or refunding the deductions made in 2021.

These funds were collected with the explicit intent of supplying educators with the necessary tools for effective teaching, and it is only fair that they be utilized for this purpose.

Additionally, we call upon the government to prioritize the allocation of funds dedicated to education, ensuring that such vital resources are not overlooked in future budgetary considerations. Education is the foundation upon which prosperous societies are built, and investing in teachers is an investment in the future of our nation.

As teachers, we have dedicated lives to shaping the minds of the next generation, and our efforts deserve unwavering support. Providing TM1 laptops is not a luxury; it is an urgent necessity that will foster a digitally inclusive education system and empower educators to reach their full potential.

The government and teachers' unions must come together to address this issue promptly, showing their dedication to the education sector and the importance of equipping teachers for the challenges ahead.

It is our deepest hope that the government recognizes the urgency of this matter and acts swiftly to rectify these past missteps. Our educators deserve the tools to provide quality education to all students, regardless of circumstances.

Delaying their access to TM1 laptops only serves to hinder progress within the education system, perpetuating inequalities in learning and hindering our collective pursuit of academic excellence.

The time for action is now. We demand a refund or the immediate provision of TM1 laptops to empower our teachers, acknowledge their invaluable contributions, and secure a brighter future for education in our country.