Viral Nigerian Mathematics Teacher Makes Global Award Top 50 List for Teaching Mathematics in Local Language
By: Olufemi Orunsola
A Nigerian teacher whose video in which he teaches Mathematics in Ijebu languages recently went viral, has made the list of 50 finalists in the 2025 annual Global Teacher Prize, following his innovative teaching method, translating complex mathematical problems into local language.
OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News gathered that the enlistment of the creative Nigerian teacher was made known in a statement by the
Chairperson, Varkey Foundation, Sunny Varkey, in which she announced the 50 finalists.
According to Varkey, the list represents educators from across the world who champion inclusivity, child rights, and innovative teaching methods adding that the Global Teacher Prize (GTP) was created to spotlight education’s critical role in addressing the world’s major challenges; from combating climate change to reducing inequality and navigating technological change.
In her words, "Through creativity and the integration of technology, they nurture students’ talents, build confidence, and foster meaningful change in society. I congratulate all top 50 finalists who are joining a global community of educators leading the way to build a better future".
The statement further highlighted that the teacher from Imagbon/Imaka Comprehensive High School, Ogun State is a Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), and known for his innovative teaching methods and dedication to bridging socio-economic gaps in education, including integrating local languages like Yoruba and Hausa into his lessons to simplify complex Mathematical problems.
The statement further revealed that, "By introducing platforms like the Technology-Assisted Management Solution (TAIMS) and educational apps like Inquiry Learning Space (ILS) and PhET simulation, he has cultivated digital literacy and enhanced performance in national and regional exams."
Meanwhile, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Education, Stefania Giannini in her own remarks on the finalists emphasised the importance of investing in educators, stating that in a time of global teacher shortages, challenging conditions, and technological advances, recognising and investing in teachers is essential to building a just, inclusive, and sustainable future.
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