When Onagbola embarked on her teaching journey three decades ago, she followed in the footsteps of her parents, both esteemed educators. Little did she know that her path would lead her to the pinnacle of the teaching profession. Now serving as the Principal of a Technical College in Lagos State, Nigeria, Onagbola’s career reached a pivotal moment when, after teaching at the primary level for 20 years, she was transferred to a technical college. During this transition, she encountered a transformative opportunity: 21st Century Skills training (Core Skills) rather than Promoting 21st Century Skills Programme by the British Council. This training initiative focused on introducing core skills vital for the modern educational landscape. “The training was a game-changer,” she recalls. “It inspired me to rethink my approach to teaching and engage students in a more interactive and democratic manner. When I applied these technical skills, I witnessed a significant improvement in my students’ performance.”
Energised by the programme, Onagbola became a catalyst for change within her school community. She not only impacted her students but also inspired her colleagues. By promoting collaboration and interactive teaching methods, she witnessed a remarkable transformation in classroom dynamics, with students becoming more engaged and motivated to learn. Onagbola’s efforts did not go unnoticed, and she was soon promoted to the position of Vice Principal. Her leadership skills, cultivated through the British Council English and School Education Programme, set her apart and propelled her career forward. Continuing her pursuit of excellence, Onagbola enrolled in the Instructional Leadership Training offered by the British Council in 2020. “The programme taught me the importance of relational leadership and how to motivate and support my staff,” she explains. “It empowered me to lead with confidence and compassion.”
The culmination of Onagbola’s journey came in 2023 when she successfully applied for the position of Principal at the Technical College in Lagos State. This achievement is significant, as she is the only female principal of a technical college in Nigeria. She credits her career growth to the invaluable insights gained from the British Council programmes. Her rise to the position of Principal highlights the critical role of continuous learning and professional development in achieving career milestones. Onagbola’s experience with the British Council English and School Education Programme exemplifies how targeted training can transform educators into dynamic leaders capable of inspiring and driving change within their communities.