7th April , 2025
Taiwo Ogunniyi
The Kwara State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) has shortlisted 1,800 successful candidates for teaching jobs across the state, marking the end of a rigorous three-month recruitment exercise.
According to a statement by the Commission on Sunday, the selection process was strictly merit-based, with attention to fairness, equity, and the specific needs of public secondary schools in all 16 local government areas of the state.
“This recruitment exercise is 100 percent merit-based,” said TESCOM Chairman, adding that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq had given a clear directive to follow due process and ensure only qualified candidates are selected.
Of the 1,800 shortlisted, 790 (44%) will teach STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects. Others include 581 for core subjects, 370 for specialized fields, and 59 for technical subjects. The list also includes 31 persons living with disabilities (PLWDs), reflecting the commission’s inclusive approach to employment.
As part of efforts to uphold professionalism and ensure quality teaching, all shortlisted candidates will undergo a compulsory drug test, fully funded by the state government. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) will conduct the test, supervised by the Governor’s Special Assistant on Drugs Abuse, Prevention and Control, Hon. Mukail Olamilekan Aileru.
The drug test is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, April 9, and end on Saturday, April 12. Results will be sent directly to TESCOM by NDLEA to prevent any form of manipulation.
The testing schedule is organized by local government, starting with candidates from Baruten, Edu, Kaiama, and Patigi on April 9, and concluding with Asa and the three Ilorin LGAs on April 12.
To ensure stability in the education sector, candidates will also sign a bond agreeing not to request a transfer for at least six years—a step aimed at curbing the shortage of teachers in rural areas.
In addition to the drug test, candidates are to submit a medical certificate from a state-owned hospital, original academic credentials, and a handwritten letter of acceptance. Documentation will take place alongside the drug test at the TESCOM headquarters in Ilorin.
TESCOM expressed appreciation to all applicants, describing the recruitment process as a milestone in transparency and inclusiveness, with opportunities extended to qualified indigenes, non-indigenes, and PLWDs.
The commission also praised Governor AbdulRazaq for his insistence on fairness and competence, noting that his approach has restored public trust in government recruitment efforts.
