Professor Lawrence Achimugu, a Professor of Science Education and Dean of the Faculty of Education at Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, has called for improved teacher welfare, adequate education funding and stronger support for innovative teaching methods in Nigeria.
Achimugu made the call on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, while delivering the university’s 30th inaugural lecture, titled “Monkey De Work, Baboon De Chop: The Dark Shadow over Innovative Teaching Methods in Science Education.”
The lecture examined the challenges preventing teachers from effectively applying modern teaching approaches, despite their importance in improving students’ understanding of science and developing practical problem-solving skills.
According to the professor, science education should go beyond memorising facts and theories. It should encourage students to ask questions, conduct experiments, investigate problems and apply scientific knowledge to real-life situations.
He highlighted approaches such as inquiry-based learning, project-based learning, STEM and STEAM education, digital laboratories, artificial intelligence-supported learning and blended classrooms as methods that can promote creativity, critical thinking and active participation among students.
However, Achimugu noted that the adoption of these methods remains limited by inadequate funding, poor infrastructure, insufficient teaching materials, overcrowded classrooms and a lack of continuous professional training.
He explained that many schools lack functional laboratories, reliable electricity and internet access, making it difficult for teachers to introduce practical and technology-driven lessons.
Explaining the title of his lecture, Achimugu said the expression “Monkey De Work, Baboon De Chop” represents a situation in which people who put in significant effort do not receive adequate rewards or recognition.
He argued that teachers are often expected to adopt demanding teaching methods without sufficient remuneration, resources or institutional support. Such conditions, he said, can weaken their motivation and limit the practical application of educational innovations.
Drawing from more than 42 years of teaching experience across primary, secondary and tertiary institutions, the professor urged governments to improve teachers’ salaries, incentives and working conditions.
He proposed a “Living Salary Scale” for teachers and recommended welfare provisions, including housing and vehicle-related loans, leave allowances and special science allowances.
Achimugu also called for increased investment in education, better-equipped science laboratories, regular professional development and stronger implementation of education policies.
He further recommended the reintroduction and compulsory application of the Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) as a minimum teaching qualification for university lecturers, arguing that pedagogical training is important for effective teaching.
The Vice-Chancellor of PAAU, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, described the inaugural lecture as timely, noting that science education plays an important role in national development.
He said effective science teaching helps prepare learners to contribute to sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, engineering and technology.
Usman congratulated Achimugu on the academic milestone and commended his contributions to teaching, research, mentorship and educational leadership. He also acknowledged the committee responsible for organising the lecture.
The event brought members of the university community and invited guests together to discuss the challenges facing science education and the measures needed to improve teaching and learning in Nigeria.