In celebration of the 2025 World Teachers’ Day, the Anambra State Government has declared Tuesday, October 7, 2025, a school-free day across all public and private schools in the state. The decision, announced by the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, is part of the state’s plans to honour and appreciate teachers for their invaluable contributions to education and nation-building.
Why Anambra Declared Tuesday a Holiday for Schools
World Teachers’ Day, which is globally marked every October 5, fell on a Sunday this year. To ensure that teachers in the state are properly celebrated, the Anambra State Government approved Tuesday, October 7, as the official day for the celebration.
According to the statement released by the Ministry of Education, the school-free day is designed to give room for a statewide gathering of teachers, parents, and education stakeholders at the Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka, where a grand event has been scheduled to take place.
Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh explained that the special day would be dedicated to celebrating teachers’ hard work, resilience, and sacrifices in shaping young minds and sustaining the high educational standards for which Anambra is known across Nigeria.
She emphasized that teachers remain the backbone of the education system and that the Soludo-led administration remains committed to ensuring their welfare and professional growth.
Event Schedule and Key Participants
The celebration is expected to commence by 8:00 a.m. at Alex Ekwueme Square in the state capital, Awka. Teachers from both public and private schools, school administrators, parents, and government officials are all expected to be in attendance.
The Ministry’s statement further noted that two major education groups — the Solution Parents League (SPL) and the Association of Private School Owners (APSON) — will play key roles during the event. Both groups are expected to participate in a “Mega Endorsement March”, a symbolic procession aimed at showing solidarity with teachers and applauding the government’s continued support for the education sector.
Soludo’s Commitment to Education Reform
Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, since assuming office, has made education a major pillar of his administration. Under his leadership, the state has rolled out several reforms targeted at improving the quality of teaching and learning.
From massive recruitment of qualified teachers to introducing digital learning aids and rehabilitating school infrastructure, Soludo’s policies have continued to strengthen Anambra’s long-standing reputation as one of Nigeria’s educational leaders.
Declaring a public school holiday to celebrate teachers further reinforces the administration’s message that teachers deserve recognition not only in words but also in actions that reflect genuine appreciation.
Reactions from Teachers and Education Stakeholders
The announcement has been warmly received across the state. Many teachers expressed excitement and gratitude, noting that such gestures go a long way in boosting morale and motivating them to perform even better.
Mrs. Nkem Okafor, a senior secondary school teacher in Awka, described the initiative as “heartwarming and respectful,” adding that “teachers often feel forgotten, but moments like this remind us that our efforts matter.”
Similarly, the leadership of the Anambra State branch of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) commended Governor Soludo for prioritizing teachers’ welfare. They called on other states to emulate Anambra’s example by showing greater appreciation for the educators who shape future generations.
Why This Celebration Matters
Teachers are the silent builders of society — they mold future leaders, innovators, and professionals. Yet, in many parts of Nigeria, they often face inadequate pay, poor infrastructure, and limited recognition.
Anambra’s move to declare a special holiday is therefore not just symbolic but deeply significant. It acknowledges teachers as nation-builders and reaffirms the belief that quality education begins with motivated and respected educators.
By dedicating a full day to honour them, the Soludo administration is setting a precedent for how governments can strengthen the morale of their education workforce and inspire better performance.
Looking Beyond Celebration: The Need for Sustained Support
While many have applauded the school-free day, education experts have also urged the state government to go beyond symbolic celebrations. They emphasized the importance of continuous investment in teacher training, better remuneration, and improved classroom conditions.
They noted that for teachers to truly thrive, the government must sustain its reforms, ensure regular payment of salaries, and introduce more incentives to attract young, passionate graduates into the profession.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 World Teachers’ Day celebration in Anambra State is shaping up to be one of the most remarkable in recent years. Declaring Tuesday as a school-free day to celebrate teachers is a bold and commendable gesture that reinforces the state’s reputation as a pacesetter in education.
As the event unfolds at Alex Ekwueme Square, all eyes will be on the Soludo administration to see how it continues to translate its promises into meaningful action for the teachers who hold the key to Anambra’s future.
Indeed, when teachers are celebrated, education thrives.
