The MTN Foundation, in partnership with SAIL Innovation Lab, has commenced Phase Two of its National Teachers Fellowship Programme, bringing 5,000 public school teachers from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) into a nationwide professional development initiative designed to strengthen teaching quality and boost digital learning skills in Nigerian classrooms.

The fellowship, which began in January 2026, is part of a broader effort to equip educators with modern teaching methodologies and essential digital competencies that align with global best practices. By incorporating digital tools like WhatsApp and Google Classroom, the programme enables teachers — even those in remote areas — to access high-quality instruction without the logistical challenges of traditional, in-person training.

During the intensive four-week virtual training, participants engage in interactive modules that focus on 21st-century pedagogical approaches and technology integration in teaching. Facilitators have structured the fellowship to encourage peer-to-peer learning, real-time assessments, and hands-on application of new skills in virtual learning environments.

At completion of this stage, the programme will recognise the “Top 500” teachers based on engagement, participation and performance. Those outstanding participants will advance to the next phase, which emphasises inquiry-based teaching methods and deeper digital transformation skills — positioning them as change agents within their schools and communities.

Speaking on the launch, Odunayo Sanya, Executive Director of MTN Foundation, highlighted the initiative’s strategic focus on educational transformation: “Teachers are the backbone of our education system. By empowering them with digital competencies and innovative teaching methods, we are directly investing in the future of our youth.”

Educators and school leaders are welcoming the programme as a much-needed boost to professional growth, particularly at a time when society increasingly demands digital literacy and innovative instruction — skills that are essential for preparing students to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.