Tompolo Foundation Trains NYSC Members on Teaching Skills in Warri

The Tompolo Foundation, in collaboration with the Delta State NYSC, has launched a training program to equip corps members with essential teaching skills for effective classroom engagement. The event, held on March 18th, 2025, at Kayriott Hotel, Warri, aimed to enhance the capacity of corps members serving in schools across rural and underserved communities Particularly in Ijaw, Itsekiri, Isoko, and Ndokwa areas.

In his welcome address, Dr. Paul Bebenimibo, representing High Chief Dr. Government Oweizide Ekpomupolo, Chairman of the Tompolo Foundation, emphasized the foundation’s commitment to improving education. He highlighted the challenges faced by corps members, particularly in riverine and rural areas, where they often serve as stand-in teachers despite lacking formal pedagogical training.  

"Having grown up in the creeks of the Niger Delta, I have seen firsthand in the difficulties corps members face in effectively teaching students. Many schools in remote areas suffer from teacher shortages, and while corps members fill the gap, they often lack the necessary skills to engage students effectively,"he stated.   

The Delta State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Hon. Mrs. Rose Ezewu, represented by Mr. Ejiroghene Erifevueme, officially declared the program open. In his remarks, he commended the Tompolo Foundation for investing in the development of corps members and, by extension, the future of education in Delta State. "A teacher’s impact should be evident in the students they teach. This training will not only build capacity and confidence among corps members but also improve the learning experience for students in our schools, "he said.  

Also speaking at the event, NYSC Local Government Inspector (LGI), Mrs. Abodunde Olubunmi, expressed gratitude to the Tompolo Foundation for organizing the training. She acknowledged the struggles corps members face in adapting to the teaching profession and noted that the program would serve as a critical step toward enhancing their effectiveness in the classroom.  

The training was facilitated by Dr. Oyovwi Edarho Oghenevwede, an Associate Professor at Delta State University, Abraka, specializing in Science Education. He delivered an in-depth session on core curriculum, quality education, and classroom management strategies. He stressed the importance of interactive and student-centered learning methods, particularly for young learners.  

"The play method is one of the most effective approaches for children, as they learn better through activities. Struggling students should not be left behind but should be closely monitored or paired with brighter peers to help them catch up,"he advised. He also introduced corps members to modern teaching tools, including technology integration and AI-powered platforms like ChatGPT, which can help simplify complex subjects for students.  

At the end of the program, corps members expressed appreciation for the opportunity, describing it as an eye-opener that would significantly improve their teaching approach. Organizers hinted at expanding the initiative to other zones, ensuring that more corps members benefit from the program and contribute meaningfully to education in rural communities like Ijaw, Itsekiri, Isoko and Ndokwa.