By Jensen Brian Abass Cummings

In a recent seminar hosted by the Sierra Leone Evangelical Fellowship of Students, Freetown polytechnic circuit. Pastor Doctor Daniel Stephen Ngegba delivered an inspiring speech that delved into the profound question: “What is our purpose in life?” Drawing from the wisdom of biblical teachings, particularly from the book of Daniel, Pastor Dr. Ngegba ignited a deep introspection among attendees, urging them to reflect on their individual callings, especially within the realm of education. As I absorbed the words of this esteemed mentor, a pastor, doctor, and seasoned lecturer, I couldn’t help but ponder the significance of purpose, particularly for those of us entrusted with the noble task of teaching.

Discovering one’s purpose, especially as a teacher or lecturer, is akin to embarking on a sacred journey of self-discovery. It necessitates a profound understanding of oneself, a keen observation of one’s surroundings, and a relentless passion for the craft of imparting knowledge. Through Pastor Dr. Ngegba’s guidance, I gleaned invaluable insights into the qualities that distinguish purposeful educators, encapsulating them as follows:

Enjoyment in Teaching:

For educators like Pastor Dr. Daniel Stephen Ngegba, finding joy in the act of teaching is not just a luxury but a fundamental aspect of their purpose. True enjoyment in teaching goes beyond the mere execution of lesson plans; it encompasses a deep-seated passion for igniting curiosity, fostering growth, and nurturing young minds’ I herebyexemplifies this joy through my  enthusiastic delivery and unwavering commitment to my  students’ success.

Teaching becomes more than a profession—it becomes a vocation, a calling that resonates with the very core of one’s being. When educators derive genuine pleasure from the process of imparting knowledge, it creates a ripple effect that permeates the entire learning environment. Students are not only exposed to academic content but also to the infectious enthusiasm and passion of their teacher, inspiring them to engage more deeply with the subject matter.

My enjoyment in teaching serves as a beacon of inspiration for both my students and fellow educators. My genuine enthusiasm is contagious, sparking a love for learning that extends far beyond the confines of the classroom. It is this intrinsic joy that fuels my dedication and drives me to continuously strive for excellence in my teaching endeavors.

Student’s Eagerness:

The eagerness of students to participate in class and engage with course material is a reflection of the effectiveness of the educator. In the case of myself, mystudents eagerly anticipate my classes, often forgetting the passage of time as they immerse themselves in the learning process. This eagerness is a testament to my ability to create a stimulating and dynamic learning environment that captivates students’ attention and fosters their intellectual curiosity.

When students are eager to learn, they become active participants in their education, eagerly seeking out opportunities to expand their knowledge and deepen their understanding. This enthusiasm not only enhances the overall learning experience but also serves as a source of motivation for the educator, reinforcing their sense of purpose and fulfillment.

My ability to inspire such eagerness in my students speaks volumes about my effectiveness as an educator. My passion for teaching, combined with my innovative instructional methods and genuine concern for my students’ well-being, creates a learning environment where students feel valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.

Appreciation:

Recognition and gratitude from students serve as tangible affirmations of your impact as an educator. The smiles on their faces and expressions of appreciation underscore the transformative power of purposeful teaching.

 Passion:

Teaching transcends mere instruction; it requires an unwavering passion to inspire, motivate, and empower students. Purposeful educators, like Pastor Dr. Ngegba, embody this passion, infusing their teaching with enthusiasm and dedication.

Classroom Engagement:

A purpose-driven teacher naturally attracts students, resulting in consistently full classrooms brimming with energy and enthusiasm. The bustling atmosphere within your class reflects the resonance of your purpose with the eager minds before you.

Timely Communication:

The urgency with which students seek your guidance, even outside of scheduled class hours, highlights their reliance on you as a mentor and source of knowledge. Your availability and responsiveness foster a supportive learning environment grounded in trust and respect.

 Mentorship:

Beyond academic instruction, purposeful educators serve as mentors and role models, offering guidance and support to students in their personal and academic endeavors. Your ability to connect with students on a deeper level fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie within the classroom.

Effortless Teaching:

When teaching feels effortless, flowing seamlessly from your passion and expertise, it signifies alignment with your purpose. Your subject matter expertise becomes a conduit through which you effortlessly connect with your students, facilitating meaningful learning experiences.

Compassion:

Compassion lies at the heart of purposeful teaching, driving educators to empathize with their students’ challenges and aspirations. Your genuine concern for their well-being transcends academic boundaries, nurturing a supportive and nurturing learning environment.

Intrinsic Fulfillment:

Ultimately, purpose manifests as a profound sense of fulfillment and contentment derived from making a difference in the lives of students. The intrinsic rewards of teaching, far surpassing any material gain, reaffirm the profound impact of purpose-driven education.

In Sierra Leone, where educators face myriad challenges, including limited resources and financial constraints, purpose serves as a guiding light amidst adversity. Despite the challenges, educators like Pastor Dr. Ngegba persevere, driven by a higher calling to empower and uplift the next generation.

Indeed, the classroom may not be a realm of monetary riches, but it abounds in treasures of a different kind—knowledge, inspiration, and transformation. With unwavering faith in divine providence and a steadfast commitment to their purpose, educators in Sierra Leone continue to sow the seeds of hope and enlightenment, trusting that their efforts will bear fruit in the lives of their students.

Advice:

To aspiring educators embarking on this noble journey, Pastor Dr. Ngegba offers the following words of wisdom:

• Embrace your calling with unwavering dedication and passion.
• Cultivate empathy, compassion, and patience in your interactions with students.
• Continuously seek opportunities for growth and self-improvement, both personally and professionally.
• Find joy in the process of teaching and learning, knowing that each day presents an opportunity to make a difference.
• Trust in divine guidance and persevere in the face of challenges, for your purpose is greater than any obstacle.

In the tapestry of life, the role of a teacher or lecturer is both profound and transformative. As you navigate the intricate threads of purpose, may you find solace in the knowledge that your contributions, however humble, have the power to shape the future and inspire generations to come?

Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday, February 12th, 2024 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)