Nigerian Teacher, Kayode Adewale Ranked Among Top 50 Educators Globally

Kayode Adewale, a Mathematics teacher at Imagbon/Imaka Comprehensive High School in Ogun State, has been named one of the 50 finalists for the 2025 Global Teacher Prize.

The announcement, shared on the Global Teacher Prize website on Wednesday, highlights Adewale’s transformative approach to education in a semi-urban area where many students come from low-income farming families and face limited access to quality learning resources.

Adewale has been recognized for “transforming the classroom experience” by using local languages like Yoruba and Hausa to simplify complex mathematical concepts.

His culturally relevant teaching methods include instructional videos and practical examples that make learning relatable and engaging for his students.

Blending Culturally Relevant Pedagogy with Digital Literacy, Adewale has encouraged students to turn their smartphones into educational tools.

He introduced platforms like Technology-Assisted Management Solution (TAIMS) and apps such as Inquiry Learning Space (ILS) and PhET simulation, helping students collaborate virtually, solve problems hands-on, and improve their academic performance in national and regional exams. These efforts have also equipped students with essential digital skills for the modern world.

Outside the classroom, Adewale’s impact is widespread. Through his Transformation1090 Initiative, he has trained over 30,000 teachers on integrating technology into their teaching.

His Ogun517GoToSpace program has sparked interest in space science among students and educators by partnering with global experts, including NASA professionals, to promote STEM careers.

Adewale’s dedication extends to environmental education, with projects like tree-planting initiatives and climate change simulations aimed at teaching students about sustainability and their role in preserving the environment.

His work has earned national and international recognition. He was named the 2nd Runner-Up for Best Teacher in Nigeria and has received numerous awards for excellence in mathematics education.

The organisers of the Global Teacher Prize praised Adewale as a model of resilience and innovation saying, “Kayode Adewale’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and an unyielding belief in the transformative power of education.

“By addressing socio-economic challenges with creativity and cultural sensitivity, he has improved academic outcomes and empowered students and teachers to unlock their full potential. His vision of a world where every child has access to quality education is not merely aspirational—it is a reality he works tirelessly to achieve.”

KanyiDaily had also reported how w 8-year-old Nigerian, Tuyva Benibo, won the title of ‘Outstanding Animation’ at the International Kids Coding Competition (IKCC).