Last Updated on August 26, 2025 by Olasunkanmi Olajide

By Olasunkanmi Olajide

For nearly a decade, Teach For Nigeria (TFN), has been quietly tackling one of the nation’s greatest challenges, education inequity. By recruiting, training, and deploying young graduates to underserved communities, the organisation has ensured that children who might otherwise have been denied quality education gain access to learning opportunities that can transform their future.

This vision recently intersected with that of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), leading to a groundbreaking partnership. According to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Olukayode Akinyemi, TFN’s impressive track record and the consistent performance of FUNAAB graduates in the programme paved the way for formal discussions, which culminated in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), in March, 2025. Through the agreement, FUNAAB now provides facilities, human resources, and technical support for TFN’s high-impact training initiatives.

At the heart of the partnership is the Pre-Service Training Institute (PSTI), an intensive six-week programme designed to equip Fellows with cutting-edge skills in pedagogy, literacy, numeracy, and leadership. While the first three weeks are conducted virtually, the final three weeks are held in person. This year, FUNAAB has proudly played host to more than 700 Fellows from across the country, many of whom are stepping on campus for the very first time.

The University spared no effort in preparing for their arrival. Hostel facilities were completely overhauled, water supply was improved, health and security systems strengthened, and internet connectivity was boosted. Even the crèche was upgraded to international standards in anticipation of Fellows who arrived with young children. According to Prof. Akinyemi, these improvements not only benefitted the visitors but would also continue to serve FUNAAB students and staff long after the programme concludes.

The serene ambience of FUNAAB’s green environment has left a lasting impression on the Fellows and TFN leadership alike. Programme Director, Miss Bosede Ogidan, commended the University’s atmosphere, describing it as more conducive than some private institutions where TFN had previously held training. “Your environment is so green, healthy, and calming. It has allowed our Fellows to settle quickly and focus on learning,” she remarked.

For TfN Senior Coach and Institute Manager, Mr. Jonathan Obiaraije, FUNAAB’s responsiveness stood out. He commended the University’s staff for their swift interventions whenever challenges arose. “Your staff have been amazing. Their response rate is very swift, and it shows how much you value this partnership,” he noted.

Beyond infrastructure and support, the impact of hosting the Fellows was also evident in the growing interest of participants in pursuing higher studies at FUNAAB. Many Fellows expressed their admiration for the University’s facilities and academic environment, with several indicating plans to return for postgraduate programmes.

With the partnership, FUNAAB has once again demonstrated its role as a hub for impactful collaborations. By supporting Teach for Nigeria’s mission, the University is helping shape a future where no child is denied the right to education. And in the process, FUNAAB continues to open its doors wider, positioning itself not just as a centre of excellence in agriculture, but as a vibrant community where education and innovation thrive.