By James Ibori
More than 600 educators, policymakers, technology partners, financial institutions and education stakeholders converged on June 6 in Asaba, Delta State, for the High Impact Conference for Educators (HICE 2026), a landmark event dedicated to strengthening the teaching profession and advancing educational transformation across Nigeria.
Held at the Southend Event Centre under the theme, _"Empowering Educators: The Path to Transformation,"_ the conference was organised by The Explore Foundation in strategic partnership with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). The event underscored the critical role of teachers in driving sustainable development and improving learning outcomes across the country.
The one-day conference brought together educators, policymakers, financial institutions, development organisations and technology providers to explore practical strategies for improving education across the Niger Delta and beyond.
Speaking at the conference, the Convener, Mrs Uche Monu, said meaningful educational reform begins with empowered educators.
"If we desire transformed learners and stronger communities, we must first invest in those who shape young minds. HICE was created to inspire, equip and celebrate educators while building partnerships that will strengthen the education sector."
The conference attracted 609 participants from public and private schools across the region. Attendees included classroom teachers, school proprietors, administrators, education consultants, government officials, traditional rulers, technology providers, financial institutions, exhibitors and development organisations.
One of the major highlights of the event was the unveiling of Mrs Monu's book, The Empowered Educator: Raising Standards of Professionalism in Teaching, which promotes professionalism, leadership and continuous professional development among teachers.
The conference also featured the distinguished presence of His Royal Majesty, Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, SAN, OON, the Asagba of Asaba, who served as the Royal Father of the Day, lending cultural significance and community support to the event.
Delivering the opening address, the Special Guest of Honour, Mr Chiedu Ebie, Chairman of the Governing Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), reaffirmed the Commission's commitment to human capital development, noting that investment in teachers remains essential to the long-term growth and prosperity of the Niger Delta region.
Goodwill messages were delivered by Her Excellency, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, Wife of the Governor of Delta State, represented by Dr Josephine Kingsley-Emu, Wife of the Secretary to the Delta State Government; a representative of the Honourable Commissioner for Secondary Education, Delta State; and Mrs Jane Ohadike, Regional Head of Public Affairs, Africa, representing the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).
Participants benefited from keynote presentations, panel discussions, breakout sessions, networking opportunities, technology demonstrations and exhibitions by leading education and financial partners, including ACCA, The Alternative Bank, Providus Bank, Silver Crest Educational Services, EDTEK, EDUCARE and several other organisations.
Discussions focused on innovative teaching methods, teacher leadership, inclusive education, digital transformation, educator wellbeing and stronger collaboration among government, the private sector and development partners.
Participants described HICE 2026 as more than a conference, calling it the beginning of a regional movement to reposition educators as catalysts for national development.
The event concluded with the announcement that HICE 2027 will be held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, with plans to expand participation, deepen partnerships and further strengthen professional development opportunities for educators across Nigeria.
According to the organisers, the conference reaffirmed a simple but powerful message: when educators are empowered, learners excel, schools improve and communities thrive.
About HICE
The High Impact Conference for Educators (HICE) is an annual professional development platform and an initiative of The Explore Foundation, established to inspire, equip and connect educators, education leaders and development partners committed to transforming education through teacher empowerment.
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