[Mhiz Rebecca]

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has expressed his
readiness to return to the classroom if offered such
opportunity, especially at the Ignatius Ajuru University of
Education, Port Harcourt.
Jonathan disclosed this yesterday while speaking at the
35th and 36th combined convocation ceremony of the
Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt
where he was conferred with “Icon of Democracy” award.
The former president, who left office in 2015, expressed
gratitude to the institution for the honour done to him.
He said: “I want to specially thank the Senate of the
University for considering my family worthy of double
honours, to wit: the conferment of the honour of Icon of
Democracy on me and the naming of the new
Automated University Library after my wife, Dame
Patience Jonathan.
“I always attach so much importance to any recognition
coming from home because I strongly believe that no
prize commands higher value than the one given by the
beneficiary’s direct constituency.”
Jonathan stated that the visit is like homecoming for
him, as a former lecturer in the Rivers State College of
Education, which was upgraded to a full-fledged
university.
The former president said: “Let me also say that I had
good job satisfaction here, compared to all the other
places I have worked. I know that the only major
challenge academic staff face is with the reward system,
considering the fact that as a nation, we are yet to get to
the point where we pay our teachers the wages they
deserve.
“However, for all the hindrances teachers face, they
derive a fulfilling experience and satisfaction from the
special relationship they cultivate with their students.
This is because bringing up the young ones is very
rewarding in a very distinct manner. The bond, friendship
and sense of loyalty are eternal.
“Even today, the way my former students regard and
relate with me is different from the way my fellow
politicians relate with me, even those I mentored.”
Source:- Leadershipng