Every year, World Teachers Day gives us the opportunity to celebrate the impact of thousands of teachers around the world. Most importantly, recognizing the contributions of our teachers and putting a spotlight on the incredible responsibility that they bear in ensuring that our pupils across the InnerCity Mission Network of Schools enjoy their educational journey. Below is an interview we had with one of our excellent teachers. Enjoy as you read through!

1.               What is your name and how many years you have been a teacher with the InnerCity Mission School?

My Name is Mrs. Chigozirim Oseni. I am a class teacher at the InnerCity Mission, Ikeja Campus. I teach Grade One Class which is for foundation learners. This is my 9th year teaching at the InnerCity Mission School, Ikeja Campus. 

2.                  What inspired you to become a teacher?

The drive of adding immeasurable value to pupils and seeing them becoming what they never thought of becoming was what inspired me to become a teacher. 

3.                  How has teaching your pupils affected your life?

Teaching these young and vibrant stars has made me a better person in many ways. I am a much better listener, more selective and careful. I have also over the years developed greater patience and empathy as someone who is also a mother. Above all, I have become a better communicator and also more caring, courteous, and respectful. 

4.                  What are the lessons you have learned from teaching at the InnerCity Mission? 

One of the major lessons I have learned so far is humility and acceptance. Without these, one might not be able to reach out to the pupils. The reason is that the pupils are coming from disjointed homes so as a teacher, I have a responsibility to build them up as much as possible and everything I say has an impact in some way. I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.

5.                  What will you tell somebody out there who desires to teach in the InnerCity Mission School? 

My advice for anyone who wants to teach at the InnerCity Mission School, is to come with a burning and passionate heart. With that, we can color the dreams of the children together!

6.         Share with us a brief story of a pupil in your class whose life has been transformed by being in the InnerCity Mission School.

I had this pupil in my class a few years ago named Wariz. When he came to school, he did not understand what his name was. Neither could he speak English. With consistency, love, and encouragement we never gave up on Wariz. We believed he had a great future ahead of him and made him see it. Today, Wariz speaks English so well and is getting ready to sit for the common entrance examination soon! 

We trust that you have been inspired by this interview on the enormous impact being made by our teachers. In commemoration of World Teachers Day join us to sponsor teaching resources for our teachers! Click here – https://theinnercitymission.ngo/donate