The Nigerian education sector is buzzing with excitement as a teacher from Ogun State, Mr. Kayode Adewale, has been named among the Top 50 Finalists for the prestigious Global Teacher Prize, organized by GEM Education in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. This accolade, awarded in partnership with UNESCO, celebrates educators who make extraordinary contributions to teaching and learning.
Mr. Adewale, a mathematics teacher at Imagbon/Imaka Comprehensive High School, Ogun State, and a PhD student at Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), has credited his journey to global recognition to his participation in the inaugural workshop of the DePECOS Institutions and Development Research Centre (DIaDeRC) in February 2024. The 3-day workshop, held in collaboration with TASUED, focused on equipping scholars with essential skills in grant writing, collaboration, and academic excellence.
Reflecting on the experience, Mr. Adewale described the workshop as a turning point in his career. “The practical training on grant-writing and impactful collaboration strategies enhanced my ability to secure funding for innovative educational projects,” he shared. He has since applied these skills to initiatives like the Transformation1090 program, which has trained over 30,000 educators across Nigeria, and the Ogun517GoToSpace initiative, which introduces space science into classrooms.
One of the workshop facilitators, Prof. Adefunke Ekine, who also mentored and sponsored Mr. Adewale’s participation, expressed her pride in his achievements. “We believed in his potential to reach remarkable global milestones, and he has exceeded our expectations,” she said.
The Global Teacher Prize, a $1 million award established by the Varkey Foundation, celebrates educators who work tirelessly to shape societies, often in underserved communities. Mr. Adewale’s inclusion as a Top 50 Finalist marks him as the second educator from Ogun State to reach this global stage, underscoring his dedication, innovation, and relentless commitment to education.
His educational journey is distinguished by numerous accolades, including being a Fulbright Teaching Excellence and Achievement Fellow, a Microsoft Innovative Educator Fellow, and a Global PhET Translator. He has also been recognized as a Top 10 Finalist for the Maltina Teacher of the Year Award and the 2nd Runner-Up for Best Teacher in Nigeria.


Mr. Adewale’s unique teaching methods, including producing instructional videos in local languages like the Ijebu dialect, have made learning more accessible and engaging for students. These innovations earned him international recognition and opportunities such as participating in the Limitless Global Educator Program in Houston, Texas.
Beyond individual success, Mr. Adewale remains committed to uplifting his peers. With the support of the Global Teacher Grant, he has organized training sessions for teachers in Ogun State, furthering his mission to transform education in Nigeria.
At DIaDeRC, there is immense pride in contributing to Mr. Adewale’s success. “His recognition is not just a personal achievement but a collective victory for educators across Nigeria,” the organization stated.
As the countdown to the Top 10 Finalists for the Global Teacher Prize begins, Nigerians are encouraged to rally behind Mr. Adewale in bringing this prestigious honor home.
The entire leadership of DIaDeRC felicitates with Mr. Kayode Adewale on this well-deserved recognition. His accomplishment is a story that inspires educators worldwide and highlights the transformative power of education. May your journey continue to shape a brighter future for generations to come.
The news has also been reported on National Newspaper.