Kayode Adewale, a mathematics teacher from Imagbon/Imaka Comprehensive High School in Ogun State, has been shortlisted for the prestigious $1 million Global Teacher Prize (GTP). This recognition places Adewale, who integrates his native Ijebu language with technology to teach mathematics, on the global map of exceptional educators.
The Global Teacher Prize, awarded annually by the Varkey Foundation in partnership with UNESCO and GEMS Education, celebrates outstanding teachers making significant contributions to education. Adewale’s innovative methods have redefined how mathematics is taught, breaking down complex concepts using culturally relevant pedagogy.
Adewale’s approach leverages the students’ mother tongue to make mathematics relatable and less intimidating. “I noticed that when I used Ijebu phrases to explain concepts, students who were usually disengaged started paying attention,” he said. For instance, he used the word lajiga (a cylindrical object like a bucket) to teach the concept of a cylinder.
This simple yet groundbreaking method has had far-reaching effects. Adewale expanded his teaching style beyond the classroom, creating resources on YouTube and social media platforms to reach underserved communities. His commitment mirrors the advocacy of education legend Aliu Babatunde Fafunwa, who championed mother-tongue education for Nigerian children.
Beyond his unique teaching style, Adewale’s initiatives have touched tens of thousands of lives. His Transformation1090 Initiative has trained over 30,000 teachers in integrating technology into their lessons, while his Ogun517GoToSpace programme has sparked interest in space science among students by connecting them with experts, including those from NASA.
“I want to inspire students to see beyond the ordinary and explore opportunities in STEM,” Adewale said, reflecting on his passion for broadening educational horizons.
His projects extend to environmental education as well. Through tree-planting campaigns and climate change simulations, Adewale equips students with the knowledge and tools to address pressing global challenges.
Adewale’s journey to being shortlisted for the GTP was not without challenges. “For three years, I applied for this prize and didn’t make it. At one point, I almost gave up,” he shared. His persistence paid off, and he now stands as the only Nigerian among the finalists, representing Africa on the global stage.
Reflecting on his experience, Adewale expressed gratitude for the support and guidance he received. “Past winners told me to prepare to defend my application honestly, and I relied on God for wisdom during the interview,” he said.
If awarded the $1 million prize, Adewale plans to channel the funds into transformative projects that will reach more underserved communities in Africa. “I want to develop an app that incorporates my teaching methods and scale up other initiatives to empower both students and teachers across the continent,” he explained.
This recognition is a testament to Adewale’s belief in the power of education to change lives. “Education is not just about the classroom. It’s about equipping people with tools to solve real-world problems,” he said.
Adewale’s accomplishment has resonated across Nigeria, shining a light on the potential of local innovations in education to garner international acclaim. His story is a reminder that impactful change often starts with understanding and valuing one’s roots.
