The education sector in Africa’s most populous country is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by innovative educators who are leveraging virtual spaces to create economic value.
Meet eight educators who are using technology to enhance learning and increase access. Oluyinka Padonu and Favour Philip of Smartbrands Media, in their research work on these educators, considered it a rare privilege to bring them and their story to the fore with a view to inspire stakeholders in the educational sector.
Maureen Ojobor, at “The Virtual Academy”; Tumininu Olusanya, founder at Ineffable Scholars; Tolulope Adebayo, founder at Tolu Adebayo Educates and Babalọlá Olajumòkẹ́, at Baolaj Yoruba Educator.
Others are; Olukale Aisha, founder at Charis Domaine; Oluwatosin Aroloye, founder at Oluko; Regina Mohie, founder at Early Start Consult; and Soetan Erioluwakemi, at Miss Soet Tutor.
Read also: Educationists urge policymakers to bridge industry, academic gaps in Nigeria
These outstanding Nigerian educationists disclosed their remarkable feat in a media chat recently, when they shared how their innovative virtual models have transformed access to quality education, teacher empowerment, and cultural preservation.
In a synergised method, the intellectual ‘Amazons’ harnessed the virtual space to deliver innovative, accessible learning and empowerment solutions across Nigeria and beyond.
Maureen Ojobor, one of the educationists, speaking on this innovative feat, emphasised the importance of cultural connection in virtual learning.
“We don’t just teach; we help children connect with their African heritage through programs like Reading Clinic and Skill-Up, ensuring excellence and dedication in every session,” she said.
Tumininu Olusanya, the founder of Ineffable Scholars, underscores the role of student-centred approaches when she said, “Consistency and robust feedback through live and recorded coaching are key to helping students excel in exams like JAMB, WAEC, and IGCSE.”
Similarly, Tolulope Adebayo, founder at Tolu Adebayo Educates, emphasised that the innovation uses technology to make education fun and flexible.
“Our animated videos and storybooks aim to make learning accessible and reliable, while offering budget-friendly options for parents,” she said.
For Babalọlá Olajumòkẹ́, at Baolaj Yoruba Educator, the virtual learning discovery extends beyond academics to cultural preservation.
Read also: Educationist advocates hybrid learning for 21st-century students
“Teaching Yorùbá language online with authenticity and creativity ensures our cultural values remain alive and accessible,” she said, explaining the importance of preserving the cultural values of a people.
Meanwhile, Olukale Aisha, founder of Charis Domaine, highlighted the importance of combining academic excellence with compassion.
“We tailor learning plans for every child, providing special needs support and parental consulting that builds lasting relationships,” she noted.
Oluwatosin Aroloye’s focus is on empowering teachers as much as learners.
“Through initiatives like Techy Teacher Academy and Save-a-thon, we equip educators with the skills and financial tools to thrive professionally and personally,” she stressed.
Read also: Meet the top 10 tech founders accelerating Nigeria’s digital space
Aroloye further disclosed that her initiative, Techy Teacher Academy, has trained over 1,000 educators, while the founder of The Virtual Academy says she has supported numerous students globally.
Mohie of Early Start Consult adds, “Our financial coaching and digital learning tools empower teachers and students, reinforcing a purpose-driven approach to education.”
Soetan of Miss Soet Tutor emphasised, “We specialise in phonics and reading for global learners, ensuring excellence in online education delivery.”
These eight educationists have leveraged technology to reach students in Nigeria and the diaspora.
Their innovative approaches have no doubt improved academic outcomes but have also bridged geographical gaps.
They’re role models for other teachers in Nigeria and in Africa in particular, showcasing the potential of virtual education to generate sustainable income and improve livelihoods.
Through their work, they’re proving that teachers’ rewards can extend beyond the classroom, creating a more sustainable and impactful educational system.
