Aderinola G. Afolabi

I remember when NYSC PPA postings came out and I got posted to a school. Guys, I was CRASHING OUT. 😭 I called my dad, and he laughed. He told me that this was not going to be my future job and that I should not feel embarrassed about being a teacher. Most of my siblings had taught in schools too, so it was not as if I was the first person in my family to experience it. But at that moment, I was genuinely sad. I kept thinking, “Oh my goodness, is this really what I am going to spend my NYSC year doing?” I was not happy about it at all. I called my mum, and she told me it was not the end of the world. It was just for my NYSC year, and there was nothing wrong with experiencing what it was like to teach. Even she had taught before, and my dad had his own teaching experience too. Then I started talking to some of my friends, and so many of them told me they had taught in schools before. Somehow, hearing all of that made me feel a little better. I realised that I was not alone in the experience. But do you know the funny part? Whenever people asked me what my PPA was, I would rather say, “I would rather not say.” Because deep down, I was embarrassed. And the funny thing is that when you refuse to tell people where you were posted, they can almost guess that it is probably a school. Fast-forward to when I actually started teaching. I began to get comfortable with the children, started having fun with them, and gradually, the experience became more interesting than I had imagined. And honestly, I will say this: teaching is not an easy job. Teachers are underpaid, and sometimes, people do not give them the respect and recognition they deserve. But with the support of my parents and siblings, alongside my NYSC allowance and salary, I have been able to get through these past ten months. I have also tried to make the most of my twenties while doing this. I go to raves, have fun whenever I can, attend my CDS meetings, show up for work, and try to balance everything. It has not been easy, but I am doing my best to enjoy my life while fulfilling my responsibilities. So, to everyone whose NYSC PPA posting is coming out this week, and you find yourself posted to a school, please do not feel bad or look down on yourself. I know it might not be what you wanted. I know you might feel disappointed, and you might even wonder how you are going to survive the next year. I felt that way too. But please, give it a chance. Teaching is not a bad thing. There is something beautiful about helping children learn, watching them understand something because of you, and knowing that you are contributing to their growth. It is something to be proud of. And remember, your PPA does not define your entire future. This is just one chapter of your life, not the whole story. You can still pursue your dreams, enjoy your twenties, and make beautiful memories while serving your country. I am Adeboyega Sulaimon, and I hope you all have a wonderful day at SideQuest Group Therapy. And for those of you who will not be going, I hope you have a wonderful day too!