Transforming Education Through Innovation: SAIL Innovation Lab Empowers 4,000 Teachers

In a remarkable effort to revolutionize Nigeria’s educational system, the SAIL Innovation Lab has successfully graduated 4,000 teachers, equipped with modern skills and innovative teaching methods. These graduates were selected from a competitive pool of 15,000 applicants across the country, marking a significant milestone in improving human capital development.

The program, a partnership between SAIL Empowerment Foundation and the MTN Foundation, and Co-Creation Hub (CC-Hub), underscores the transformative power of innovative education. Held at the SAIL Innovation Lab in Ebute, Ipakodo, Ikorodu, Lagos State, the graduation ceremony was graced by notable figures, including government officials, traditional rulers, political leaders, and many stakeholders in the education sector.

The SAIL Teachers Fellowship Program aimed to equip educators with advanced tools, knowledge, and techniques to transform classroom learning. During the ceremony, Mr. Deji Abisola, Chief Impact Officer of SAIL Empowerment Foundation, emphasized the success of the program.

“The SAIL Teachers Fellowship Program has been a journey of empowerment, equipping educators with tools, knowledge, and techniques to revolutionize classroom teaching across Nigeria,” said Abisola. He highlighted the significance of transitioning from traditional instructional methods to inquiry-based learning, improving digital literacy, and embracing innovative classroom management practices.

According to Shalom Anurigwo, a project manager from CC-Hub, the program trained teachers from public and private secondary schools across Nigeria in two phases, focusing on three core objectives: Transition to Inquiry-Based Learning – Teachers were trained to adopt modern, interactive teaching methods that prioritize student curiosity and engagement, participants learned to use digital tools and techniques to meet the demands of 21st-century education, and practical strategies were shared to help teachers manage large classrooms effectively and improve learning outcomes.

These objectives aim to empower teachers to foster a dynamic and inclusive learning environment, aligning with global education trends.

Senator Tokunbo Abiru,  co-founder of the SAIL Empowerment Foundation, reaffirmed his dedication to human capital development and educational advancement. In his remarks, Abiru noted that the testimonies of participating teachers reflected the program’s transformative impact on classrooms and student learning.

“This program underscores our steadfast commitment to human capital development and educational advancement. We aim to scale this initiative further with continued support from the MTN Foundation and other private-sector partners,” said Senator Abiru.

The Senator also charged the graduating teachers to leverage their newly acquired skills to inspire their students and drive positive change in their communities.

Several prominent figures commended the initiative and its potential to reshape Nigeria’s educational landscape. Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, APC Lagos State Chairman, praised Senator Abiru for his innovative approach to empowerment, noting that equipping individuals with skills ensures long-term impact compared to material donations. “With what Senator Abiru has decided to do, he is preparing people for the future to become employers of labor,” said Ojelabi.

Hon. Tolani Sule, Lagos State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, emphasized the importance of quality teachers in achieving educational excellence. He highlighted the state government’s ongoing efforts to upgrade both infrastructure and teacher training, stating that partnerships like the one with SAIL Lab would further improve the sector.

The paramount Ruler of Ikorodu Division, HRM Oba Kabir Adewale  Shotobi, traditional ruler of Ikorodu, lauded the initiative and congratulated the teachers for their dedication to improving education in Nigeria.

As the SAIL Lab continues its mission to empower educators, its impact resonates far beyond the classroom, contributing to a brighter and more innovative future for Nigeria.