ASABA – In a bid to enhance the quality of Mathematics and Science education at the basic level, the Delta State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), has commenced a five-day intensive capacity-building training for 450 Mathematics and Science teachers under the Strengthening Mathematics and Science Education (SMASE) initiative.
The training programme, which runs from August 4 to 8, 2025, is being held simultaneously across the three senatorial districts of Delta State. The designated training centres are Government Model Secondary School, GRA, Asaba for Delta North; Government College, Ughelli for Delta Central; and College of Education, Warri for Delta South. Activities commence at 9:00 a.m. daily.
SMASE, an initiative of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in partnership with Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Education, is designed to improve teaching and learning of Mathematics and Science at the basic education level using the ASEI-PDSI (Activity, Student, Experiment, Improvisation, Plan, Do, See, Improve) approach. The focus is on shifting from traditional, teacher-centred methods to a more participatory, learner-centred model.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Director of SUBEB, Delta State, Mrs. Eru Ezefili, commended the visionary leadership of the Board Chairman, Hon. Sir Samuel Mariere, describing him as a father figure with a heart of gold and a true friend to teachers. She acknowledged the presence of dignitaries and stakeholders who turned out to support the noble initiative.
In his remarks, Dr. Ossom Ossom, Director of Teacher Development at UBEC Abuja, lauded the Delta State Government for establishing what he described as an “enviable board,” headed by Hon. Mariere. He praised the unwavering dedication of teachers, emphasizing their critical role in shaping the nation’s future. Reflecting on a moving student performance at the event, he quoted, “Quality data and professional development of teachers are for a developed nation, not for those who wish to harbour poverty in the future.”
Delivering the vote of thanks, the Chairman of Delta SUBEB, Hon. Sir Samuel Mariere, expressed deep gratitude to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading such a transformative board. He emphasized the administration’s zero tolerance for absenteeism, declaring that habitual absence from duty will henceforth be considered gross misconduct warranting disciplinary action, including dismissal.
Sir Mariere stated unequivocally that staff will only be paid based on the number of days they report for duty. “I mean it and I’m not joking,” he said, urging all staff to align with the reforms being instituted. According to him, “We must correct the bad practices we inherited. Our children are now winning national honours and recognition through their innovation and intelligence. We must continue to make Delta State proud.”
He cited the recent innovation by Delta students who successfully designed a machine that filters dirt from water as evidence of the tangible impact of quality teaching. “Such achievements,” he said, “are testaments to the brilliance of our learners and the commitment of their teachers.”
The ongoing SMASE training underscores the state’s dedication to academic excellence and professional development. By empowering teachers with modern instructional strategies, the Delta SUBEB and UBEC are fostering a new generation of learners who can think critically, innovate, and compete globally.
