By Cynthia Batuta
The Director of the FCT Education Resource Centre (ERC), Education Secretariat, Dr. Neemat Daud Abdulrahim, has led a collective call alongside the Literature-in-English Teachers Association (LETA) for the repositioning of Literature-in-English teaching to improve learning outcomes across FCT schools.
Dr. Abdulrahim made the call while delivering an engaging and impactful keynote address at the Conference of the Literature-in-English Teachers Association (LETA), Abuja Chapter.
Speaking with indepth, clarity, and passion, the Director emphasized the urgent need to transform the teaching of Literature-in-English to enhance learners’ comprehension, creativity, and overall academic performance.
She described Literature as a doorway to imagination, empathy, and self-discovery, stressing that it is far more than an examination subject. She outlined modern, learner-centred strategies required to reposition the subject.
She highlighted key modern , learner – centred strategies such as integrating digital tools , using creative methods like dramatization and debates , reviving reading culture through book clubs and competitions , and adopting contextual teaching that connects texts to real – life experiences.
Dr. Abdulrahim noted that these approaches align with the Centre’s mandate to provide culturally relevant and pedagogically sound instructional materials.
She further called for a shared responsibility among stakeholders, describing the repositioning of Literature as both a national and cultural duty. She urged educators to go beyond preparing learners for examinations to nurturing character, confidence, and critical thinking.
Reaffirming the Centre’s commitment to transformation, she pledged improved teaching standards, strengthened reading culture, advocacy for supportive policies, and increased access to learning resources.
The Director encouraged LETA to ensure that the teaching of Literature evolves to meet the realities of today’s learners.
Speaking earlier in her welcome address, the Chairperson of the Conference Planning Committee, Mrs. Bonire Deborah described the gathering as “historic, intentional, and evidence of the collective strength of Literature Teachers.
She expressed deep appreciation to the Education Resource Centre (ERC) under the leadership of Dr. Neemat Daud Abdulrahim for the support and creating an enabling environment and examination bodies as well as principals for their support for the programme’s success.
Mrs. Bonire called on examination bodies to rethink their approach, noting that many Literature questions have become abstract and disconnected from learners’ contexts.
She appealed for more clarity, practicality, and alignment with contemporary student realities.
In her opening speech, the President of the Literature-in-English Teachers Association, Hajiya Hauwa Mahmud Madugu, described the conference as a reflection of collective commitment to progress, innovation, and impact. She commended Teachers for their dedication and resilience, calling them “the heartbeat of this subject.”
Hajiya Hauwa emphasized that Literature teachers are not only imparting knowledge but shaping imagination, critical thinking, empathy, culture, and identity.
She stated that the theme of the conference of “Repositioning Literature-in-English Teaching for Improved Learning Outcomes” captures the urgent need to evolve methods, delivery, and mindset to meet the demands of today’s learners.
Other goodwill messages were received from FCT SEB, DQA, UBEB, JAMB, Principals, all reaffirmed LETA’s commitment to pushing boundaries, advocating for stronger institutional support, and creating platforms that empower teachers and uplift students.
The 2025 LETA Conference whose membership cut across both Public and Private Schools in the FCT featured three major segments designed to deepen professional capacity and strengthen classroom practice with A paper presentation on “Effective Teaching Methods” a session on “Effective Approaches to Literary Appreciation and Classroom Engagement”, an insightful presentation by Mr. Opeifa of 1 Million Teachers on Empowering Learners Through the SDGs.
The highlight of the colourful event was awards presentations to the Director, FCT ERC, among several other recipients. The activities collectively celebrated excellence and inspired renewed dedication among Literature teachers, with a strong focus on enhancing teaching quality and addressing the challenges highlighted during the event.