Within the realm of academia, the significance of the teacher-student relationship cannot be understated. The interactions between educators and learners not only shape educational experiences but can also leave a lasting impact on the lives of those involved.
The narrative of Tahir Mamman illuminates the qualities of a commendable educator and the enduring influence of a nurturing teacher-student relationship.
The professor of Law, who is currently the vice-chancellor of Baze University, Abuja, was defended by a former student, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, who said the nominee treated him well during his university days, and in return blew his trumpet at the Red Chamber.
During the screening, Lawan, representing Borno Central senatorial district, said Mamman was his former law lecturer and Dean of student affairs, adding that he equipped him intellectually and otherwise.
Maintaining Equitable Student Relations
A cornerstone of effective teaching lies in fostering a balanced and unbiased rapport with students. While personal preferences may arise, it is imperative that educators uphold the principle of treating all students equitably.
A genuine commitment to fairness contributes to an environment conducive to learning, where each student feels valued and respected. This principle resonates strongly in the case of Professor Tahir Mamman, whose approach to education exemplifies the value of impartiality.
“My name is Kaka Shehu Lawan, I represent the good people of Borno Central senatorial district, from Borno State, Northeastern Nigeria,” Lawan said.
“The nominee standing before you is Professor Tahir Mamman, once my teacher, Head of the Department, and Dean of the Faculty of Law and Student Affairs, while I was a student at the University of Maiduguri. In part 2, he taught me Constitutional Law, and in part 3, Administrative Law.
“I am very happy to inform this Hallowed Chamber that I was a student union leader when he was the Student Union Affairs at the University of Maiduguri. Comrade Oshiomhole was also my mentor then when he was a Labour leader.”
A Case Study: Tahir Mamman’s Impact
The intriguing story of Tahir Mamman unfolds in the context of the Senate screening of ministerial nominees.
Amidst the nominees, Tahir Mamman, a distinguished academic from Adamawa State, emerged as a nominee for President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet.
The revelation that one of his former students at the University of Maiduguri, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, now occupies a senatorial position, speaks volumes about the profound influence Mamman exerted on his students.
Teacher as a Catalyst for Success
Senator Lawan’s account attests to the transformative role that Mamman played during their academic journey.
As Lawan eloquently described, Mamman was not only a teacher but also a mentor, guiding Lawan through the intricate landscape of Constitutional Law and Administrative Law.
This relationship extended beyond the classroom, as Lawan’s memories of Mamman’s involvement in student affairs depict a teacher committed to holistic growth.
Intellectual and Moral Support
Professor Mamman’s contribution extended beyond intellectual nourishment. His dedication to supporting students during challenging times, exemplified by his efforts to secure accommodation for them, showcases a profound commitment to their well-being.
Such actions underscore the impact educators can have on the lives of their students beyond academic boundaries.
The saga of Tahir Mamman and Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan emphasises the significance of fostering meaningful teacher-student relationships.
Mamman’s dedication to equitable treatment, intellectual guidance, and moral support serves as an inspiring model for educators across the globe.
Lawan stated, “Mr President, Professor Taiwo Mamman was one of the best brains at the University of Maiduguri. As a lecturer in part 2, he fraternised with the students, when you asked him questions, he would answer.
“And then, he would practically expose us to the constitution and how it operates, the modus operandi of power of executive, legislature and judiciary were actually at our fingertips in part 2.
“In part 3, when the students of the University of Maiduguri were not entitled to accommodation, when he became the Dean of Student Affairs, he maneuvered his ways to make sure that the students were accommodated in the hostel. Not only that, he gave us free hands to operate as unionists at the University of Maiduguri.”
As the academic landscape continues to evolve, the enduring legacy of such relationships reminds us that the lessons learned within the classroom can reverberate in the halls of leadership and beyond.
