Mr. Kayode Adewale, a Mathematics teacher at Imagbon/Imaka Comprehensive High School in Ogun State, Nigeria, has been named among the top 50 finalists for the prestigious 2025 Global Teacher Prize.
This recognition was announced in a statement on the official Global Teacher Prize website.
Teaching in a semi-urban community where most students come from low-income farming families, Adewale has transformed education in an environment with limited access to quality resources. Many of his students initially used smartphones solely for entertainment, but his innovative methods have revolutionized their academic experience.
Bridging Cultural and Educational Gaps
The organisers highlighted Adewale’s use of culturally relevant teaching techniques, which include incorporating local languages like Yoruba and Hausa to simplify complex mathematical concepts.
“By creating culturally tailored instructional videos and leveraging relatable examples, Adewale bridged the gap between his students’ cultural realities and academic content, fostering engagement and understanding,” the statement said.
His teaching integrates Culturally Relevant Pedagogy with Digital Literacy Education, encouraging students to use their smartphones as academic tools. He introduced platforms such as the Technology-Assisted Management Solution (TAIMS) and apps like Inquiry Learning Space (ILS) and PhET simulation, enabling collaborative virtual study groups and hands-on problem-solving. These strategies have significantly improved students’ performance in national and regional examinations while equipping them with essential digital skills.
Empowering Educators and Inspiring Innovation
Adewale’s impact extends beyond the classroom. Through his Transformation1090 Initiative, he has trained over 30,000 teachers, empowering them to integrate technology into their teaching practices.
As the founder of the Ogun517GoToSpace program, he has fostered interest in STEM careers by collaborating with global professionals, including NASA experts, to introduce students and educators to space science.
In addition to his focus on STEM education, Adewale promotes sustainability through projects such as tree-planting initiatives and climate change simulations. These efforts have equipped students with the knowledge to address environmental challenges.
A Legacy of Excellence
Adewale’s outstanding contributions have earned him national and international recognition. He was named the 2nd Runner-Up for Best Teacher in Nigeria and has received multiple awards for excellence in mathematics education.
The organisers of the Global Teacher Prize described him as a symbol of resilience and innovation, stating:
“Kayode Adewale’s story is a testament to the transformative power of education. By addressing socio-economic barriers with creativity and cultural sensitivity, he has enhanced academic outcomes and empowered students and educators to reach their full potential. His vision of ensuring every child has access to quality education is not just aspirational—it is a reality he strives to create every day.”
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