The Federal Government has introduced a fully digital selection process for the 2026 Presidents’ Teachers’ and Schools’ Excellence Awards, replacing the manual system previously used to identify outstanding teachers and educational institutions.
Minister of State for Education Suwaiba Said Ahmad announced the change in Abuja ahead of the 2026 World Teachers’ Day celebration scheduled for October 5.
World Teachers’ Day has been observed annually since 1994.
The 2026 celebration also marks 60 years since the 1966 recommendation by the International Labour Organization and UNESCO concerning the status of teachers.
Ahmad said the Federal Ministry of Education introduced the digital process in line with African Union guidelines.
According to her, the objective is to improve transparency, accountability, security and documentation during the selection of award recipients.
The celebration is being organized by the Federal Ministry of Education in partnership with the Nigeria Union of Teachers.
Ahmad said discussions would focus on preparing teachers for changes transforming education around the world.
Five major areas have been identified, including innovation, mobility, artificial intelligence, inclusion and professional excellence.
Fourteen teachers, schools and other education stakeholders are expected to receive recognition under the 2026 awards programme.
The first three teachers will receive prizes while other recipients will receive laptops.
Teachers representing the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory are also expected to participate in the celebration.
Activities will include a parade featuring state flags and traditional attire.
Deputy National President of the Nigeria Union of Teachers Kizito Kalu said rapid technological change made strengthening the teaching profession increasingly important.
Speaking on behalf of NUT President Titus Amba, Kalu said technology and artificial intelligence were transforming education but should not displace the professional role of teachers.
He argued that no strong education system could be developed without teachers who were properly trained, supported and respected.
The union called for teachers to be equipped with the skills required to use emerging technology while continuing to exercise professional judgement.
As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into education, the challenge for policymakers will be ensuring that technology strengthens teaching rather than reducing the importance of the teacher in the learning process.
