A Nigerian teacher, Kayode Adewale, has emerged as one of the 50 finalists in the 2025 annual Global Teacher Prize for his innovative teaching method of translating complex mathematical problems into local language
Penpushing reports that the Chairperson of the Varkey Foundation, Sunny Varkey, in a statement announcing the 50 finalists, said the list represents educators from across the world who champion inclusivity, child rights, and innovative teaching methods.
The statement explained that the Global Teacher Prize 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.
“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’, Varkey said
Penpushing further reports that UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Education Stefania Giannini in her 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.
The statement, however, stated 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 concepts.
Penpushing reports that Adewale addressing the challenges of students lacking access to quality educational resources, transformed his students’ relationship with smartphones, encouraging their use for academic purposes.
“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,” the statement reads.
“He created opportunities for collaborative virtual study groups and hands-on problem-solving, enhancing students’ performance in national and regional exams while cultivating digital skills critical for 21st-century success.”
Penpushing further reports that Adewale through his Transformation1090 Initiative, has trained over 30,000 teachers, equipping them with tools to integrate technology into their teaching practices.
“As the founder of the Ogun517GoToSpace programme, he has inspired students and educators to explore space science, collaborating with global professionals, including NASA experts, to foster interest in STEM careers,” the statement reads.
Penpushing also reports that the Prize, organised by the Varkey Foundation in collaboration with the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), celebrates exceptional teachers making transformative impacts in education and their communities, while the prize is widely regarded as the “Nobel Prize of Teaching”.
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