In this edition of My Mentor Life, we talk with an enthusiastic educator whose commitment exceeds lesson strategies and classrooms. For this teacher, education is not practically providing material, it is about shaping character, directing choices, and assisting youths find direction. Despite the obstacles within the system, their devotion stays rooted in the belief that every kid can prosper with the right assistance.
From navigating the emotional demands of supporting students beyond academics to facing the realities of an under-resourced system, their journey reflects both the sacrifices and the peaceful victories that define the class experience. Yet, what stands apart most is a deep sense of responsibility, not simply to teach, but to direct, inspire, and aid students discover their strengths in a world that often neglects them.
Temitope Kareem (TK): How did you become a teacher?
Adenike Oluwadamilola Ogungbo (AOO): I became a teacher because I love sharing understanding, ideas, and notifying people about what I know.
TK: What did you think teaching would be like and how wrong were you?
AOO: I at first believed teaching was merely about educating the more youthful generation. However, I later understood it involves a lot more, experience, adjusting to existing trends, being subtle, building relationships, and implementing discipline all play a crucial role.
TK: Stroll us through your side of the classroom. What does a common day appear like for you?
AOO: I constantly feel fulfilled after each day, specifically when I achieve my mentor goals. I delight in an interactive classroom where learners get involved actively. It excites me when trainees read with confidence, finish their classwork, and attempt their homework. I also make it an indicate appreciate their development, although it can be discouraging when some students fail to finish their assignments.
TK: What is the hardest part of this job no one speak about?
AOO: Teaching is extremely sacrificial. Lots of teachers support trainees with their own resources despite being underpaid. It is also emotionally requiring, as some students deal with challenging household circumstances. Beyond mentor, there is the counselling element assisting students on profession options, academic opportunities, and life priorities.
TK: Tell us about the moment that altered how you teach forever.
AOO: I understood that an educated child is less most likely to engage in devastating behaviour or end up being a societal issue. That understanding enhanced my dedication to mentor and made it something I hold really near to my heart.
TK: If you could return to your very first day as a teacher, what would you inform yourself?
AOO: I would inform myself that I am a blessing to this nation.
TK: Have you ever wished to stop? What took place? What made you stay?
AOO: Yes, I have considered quitting, primarily due to the low income. However, I asked myself essential questions such as; who would I depend teach my own children? What example would I set for them? In the end, I chose to stay since the effect of mentor exceeds financial benefits.
TK: What does the education system get basically incorrect about instructors?
AOO: Educators, specifically those in class, are not treated with the exact same value as experts in other sectors. Furthermore, students are not constantly appropriately directed. Those who need to remain in technical schools remain in traditional class, and trainees with sporting skills are not adequately supported due to gaps in curriculum preparation and execution.
TK: If you had 5 minutes with a policymaker, what would you say?
AOO: I would encourage them to guarantee proper assessment of trainees at the junior level to recognize their strengths. This would help place them in appropriate areas of specialisation in senior school, enabling them to establish their skills efficiently.
TK: Has this job impacted your life outside the class?
AOO: Yes, positively. It has shaped my personality. I value order, discipline, and doing things effectively. I dislike disorganisation and motivate structured behaviour in every aspect of life.
TK: What’s the student story you’ll carry with you for the rest of your life?
AOO: A trainee once told me she hesitated of English Language and pointed out specific topics she struggled with. I reassured her and spent time teaching those areas using past concerns. When she composed her JAMB, English became her second-highest score. Today, she is in the university. That minute stays extremely special to me.
TK: What do you want your trainees to remember about you, twenty years from now?
AOO: I desire them to remember that understanding is power and education is the essential to success. They must always intend higher, and if any of them becomes a teacher, I hope they will make an even greater impact than I have.
TK: In one sentence, how would you describe your teaching life?
AOO: My mentor life has been impactful, satisfying, and deeply rewarding.