2,357 teachers have been sacked by Kaduna State Universal Basic Education Board (KADSUBEB) for reportedly failing to pass the competence test held in the state.
KADSUBEB spokesperson, Hauwa Mohammed said the Board conducted a competence test for over 30,000 teachers in December 2021.
2,192 primary school teachers, including the National President of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) were dismissed for refusing to sit for the test. 165 teachers out of the 27,662 teachers that sat for the competence test, were also sacked for poor performances.
Teachers who passed the exam will be included in Teacher Professional Development (TPD) programmes to enhance their capacities to deliver quality teaching to pupils.
The statement read;
“Following the state government’s resolution for continued assessment of teachers to ensure better delivery of learning outcomes for pupils, KADSUBEB conducted another competency test for the teachers in December 2021.
“The services of teachers who scored below 40 per cent are no longer required and their appointments have been terminated from the Public Service for their poor performances.
“Teachers who scored 75 percent and above were recognized as those who passed the test and qualified for attending courses in leadership and school management.
“Teachers who scored between 40 and 74 percent did not meet up with the minimum pass mark, they will be given a second chance to improve their capacities.
“KADSUBEB has initiated viable training programs for teachers under its statutory TPD with support from the state government and development partners.
“The training programs will be conducted during the end of term vacation and in their respective schools, to minimize disruptions of teaching and learning.
“They are also encouraged to complement the government’s efforts and seek personal development for their good.
“The board is assuring teachers and the public that it remains committed to ensuring their continuous professional development and the improvement of the learning outcomes of pupils and students.”
Reacting to reports of them being sacked, NUT chairman in the state, Ibrahim Dalhatu described the competence test and the sack of the teachers as illegal.
Dalhatu who noted that they asked teachers not to write the examination after learning that the intent was to sack them, added that while the union is not against the conduct of the test, it should however not be used as a basis for a sack.
He said;
“We have secured a court order restraining the Board from conducting the competency test, it conducted the test without recourse to the rule of law.”
