Tompolo Foundation Trains NYSC Members in Warri to Improve Teaching Skills

The Tompolo Foundation, in partnership with NYSC Delta, has successfully concluded the first batch of its six-batch, three-day training program on enhancing the pedagogical skills of corps members. Held at the PTI Conference Centre, Effurun, for the Warri zonal area of Delta State, the initiative aimed to equip corps members with effective teaching techniques to improve education in rural communities such as Ijaw, Itsekiri, Isoko, and Ndokwa.

Facilitated by Dr. Job Bebenimibo and Dr. Austen Bisina, the intensive training covered key topics designed to transform corps members into more effective educators. The first day introduced constructivist and student-centered pedagogy, lesson planning, inquiry-based learning, and classroom management strategies, allowing participants to engage in practical exercises to strengthen their understanding.

Building on this foundation, the second day provided a recap of previous lessons and delved deeper into constructivist learning methods, including Gagne’s learning hierarchy and additional classroom exercises. The focus was on fostering critical thinking in students while equipping corps members with the tools to create an engaging learning environment.

On the final day, participants explored role-play as a learning strategy, the use of low-cost learning resources, and the integration of Open Educational Resources (OERs) and free digital tools in teaching. The training concluded with a session on continuous professional development and mentoring, followed by a post-test and an online training evaluation to measure the program’s impact.

The commitment and enthusiasm displayed by the corps members were evident in their performance. A test conducted during the training saw most participants achieving impressive scores of 70% to 80%, demonstrating their grasp of the new teaching strategies. The impact of the training was further reinforced as corps members expressed confidence in applying their skills in real classroom settings.

In recognition of their dedication, corps members were awarded certificates at the end of the program. The event was a moment of pride, not only for the participants but also for the facilitators and organizers who worked tirelessly to ensure the success of the initiative. The certificates symbolized their readiness to contribute meaningfully to education in the communities where they serve.

Beyond academic training, the program was conducted in an environment that prioritized safety and discipline, made possible by the steadfast efforts of Tompolo Security Services. Their presence ensured that the learning sessions proceeded without disruptions, allowing corps members to focus on gaining the necessary knowledge and skills.

During the closing session, the corps members, led by their class representative, Okobi Arinze David, delivered a heartfelt appreciation to Tompolo Security Services for their unwavering support. They acknowledged the critical role played by the security team in fostering a secure and conducive atmosphere for learning, emphasizing how such an environment contributed to their overall training experience.

With this training, the Tompolo Foundation has taken a significant step in bridging the education gap in underserved communities. By empowering corps members with essential teaching skills, the foundation is not only enhancing the quality of education but also ensuring that students in rural areas receive the guidance they deserve. The successful completion of this batch marks the beginning of a transformative journey, with more corps members set to benefit from future training sessions.