The MIT-Empowering the Teachers (MIT-ETT) program provides an intense, semester long teaching-focused engagement for selected cohorts of faculty members (ETT Fellows) from African universities. By introducing the ETT Fellows to cutting edge student-focused teaching methodologies the ETT strives to foster innovation in science and engineering education in tertiary academic institutions in Africa. Our vision for the students of our Fellows is to graduate ready for the demands of today’s job market, equipped with hands-on problem solving and critical thinking capabilities. NNPC Ltd. & TotalEnergies EP Nigeria are the corporate partners and sponsors of the program.
The approach to science and engineering education in African universities is yet to adopt a focus on problem solving, innovation and creativity. Furthermore standards in these tertiary institutions have retrogressed due to severe neglect and lack of investment. Curricular and assessment methods have not adopted practices that encourage critical thinking, open ended problem solving and creativity, rather they are still built around teacher-centered lecture rooms that focus on information acquisition, memorization and regurgitation at closed book examination. Consequently, these academic institutions have not produced science and engineering graduates needed by industry to add value.
The NNPC/TotalEnergies MIT Empowering the Teachers Program is a collaborative initiative between the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), TotalEnergies, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). This program aims to enhance the quality of science and engineering education in Nigerian universities by providing professional development opportunities for faculty members.
The program targets university faculty members in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines who are passionate about teaching and committed to improving the quality of education in Nigeria. Selected participants, known as “Teacher-Fellows,” undergo an intensive training program at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the United States.
During their time at MIT, Teacher-Fellows engage in a series of workshops, seminars, and hands-on training sessions focused on innovative teaching methodologies, curriculum development, and research-based pedagogical practices. They have the opportunity to interact with renowned faculty members, researchers, and education experts at MIT, gaining valuable insights and resources to enhance their teaching effectiveness.
Upon completion of the training program at MIT, Teacher-Fellows return to their home institutions in Nigeria, where they apply the knowledge and skills acquired to improve teaching and learning experiences for their students. They serve as catalysts for change within their departments and universities, sharing best practices, implementing new teaching strategies, and mentoring fellow faculty members.
In addition to the professional development component, the NNPC/TotalEnergies MIT Empowering the Teachers Program also includes support for educational infrastructure and resources at participating Nigerian universities. This may involve the provision of teaching materials, laboratory equipment, and technology-enhanced learning tools to enhance the overall learning environment for students.
The program aims to empower Nigerian university faculty members to become more effective educators and agents of positive change within their institutions and communities. By investing in the professional development of STEM educators, the program seeks to contribute to the advancement of science and engineering education in Nigeria and ultimately support the country’s socioeconomic development.
Benefits
The program covers basic travel, living, and instructional material expenses. During their time at MIT, fellows will:
- Attend classes similar to those they teach, gaining insights into innovative teaching methodologies.
- Develop new curricular materials and teaching approaches for adoption in their home universities.
- Participate in MIT-ETT seminars focusing on curriculum design and MIT cultural aspects.
Requirements For The NNPC/TotalEnergies MIT Empowering the Teachers Program
To qualify for the NNPC/TotalEnergies ETT Fellowship, applicants must:
- Be passionate about developing new curricula and teaching methods, demonstrating a commitment to driving change.
- Hold a Ph.D. and serve as a faculty member in a Nigerian university, specializing in disciplines such as Computer Science, Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical or Petroleum Engineering, or Geophysics.
- Possess a Lecturer One rank within their respective institutions.
Method of Application
Visit The Official Website to Apply
- Applications will undergo thorough vetting by an MIT committee.
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews in Lagos during the week of July 22.
- Selected candidates will receive interview notifications at the beginning of July 2024.
Application Deadline: May 26, 2024.
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