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The Busayo Ademuyiwa Foundation (BAF), an education focused non governmental organisation, has hosted its first-ever Teachers’ Conference, bringing together more than 100 teachers, school leaders, and education stakeholders for a day of learning, reflection, and celebration.
The one-day event, held in Lagos last week, was themed “Nurturing Minds, Shaping Futures.” It focused on strengthening the role of educators as catalysts for national transformation through professional development, mental wellness, and value-based learning.
In her welcome address, Busayo Ademuyiwa, founder of the foundation, described the conference as “a space to celebrate teachers, amplify their voices, and equip them with tools to thrive.” She commended educators across Nigeria for their resilience and sacrifice, stressing that true education reform begins with empowered teachers.
“This conference is about celebrating those who shape minds and, by extension, the future,” Ademuyiwa said. “Education reform does not start in boardrooms, it begins with teachers who are supported, valued, and equipped to succeed.”
Delivering the keynote speech, Hope Ifeyinwa Nwakwesi, educator and founder of the Almanah Hope Foundation, emphasised that “when teachers are empowered, families are saved and the nation is stable.” She called for a reviewed school curriculum that moves learning beyond the four walls of the classroom to real-world applications.
Also, Anthony Amahwe, general manager of BIC Nigeria, described teachers as “the true champions of learning and the architects of justice.” He urged educators to embrace lifelong learning, noting that “a growing teacher is a better teacher.”
In his speech, AbdulRofiu Alaba Alape, hammered on the importance of unity and advocacy among teachers. He highlighted that collective action and shared passion are essential to building a more inclusive and equitable education system.
The conference also featured panel discussions addressing contemporary challenges in education.
The first panel, “Reimagining the Role of Teachers in the 21st Century,” examined how educators can adapt to changing learning environments through creativity, empathy, and technology integration. The second panel, titled “Inclusive Classrooms, Mental Wellness, and Value-Based Learning,” explored the social and emotional aspects of teaching.
A key highlight of the day was the presentation of the “Dignity Kit,” a special teacher recognition gift donated by The RedTent Health Initiative. The kit was awarded to Kafayat Olabisi Akinola, a teacher recognised for her outstanding efforts in mobilising participants for the event.
In her closing remarks, Ademuyiwa reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to advancing inclusive education and teacher development in Nigeria.
“We are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to making this conference possible,” she said. “Our goal is to continue empowering educators because when we nourish teachers, we truly shape the future.”
