Oluwatumini Lawanson, the Director of Dew of Hermon Montessori School in Gbagada, Lagos, has called for a fundamental shift in Nigeria's education system, emphasizing that early learning should focus on building character rather than just chasing grades. In an interview with Iyabo Lawal, she spoke about staffing and material costs, misconceptions about Montessori education, and the urgent need for curriculum reform to prioritize intrinsic motivation, teacher welfare, and genuine understanding over rote memorization.
Inspired by a Love for Children
Lawanson shared her personal journey into Montessori education. Initially aspiring to be a pediatrician, she studied Zoology after failing to gain admission to medical school. Working in an insurance company left her unfulfilled until she saw an advert for a computer teacher position. That marked the beginning of her teaching career. She soon realized there was more to education than traditional methods, leading her to discover the Montessori method. The training was transformative, emphasizing holistic, child-centered learning where teachers understand human development and prepare environments for children to reach their full potential. She completed training for ages three to six, then six to twelve, and is currently studying the zero-to-three age group. In July 2012, with her husband's encouragement, she founded Dew of Hermon Montessori School.
Challenges of Running a Montessori School
Lawanson identified staffing as a major challenge. Certified Montessori educators are scarce, and many start their own schools or demand high salaries. She emphasized the need to grow her own staff through training. The cost of authentic Montessori materials, which are scientifically designed tools, is another hurdle. Additionally, misconceptions about Montessori education persist; some believe it is only for children with special needs or that students cannot adapt to traditional systems. She countered these myths, citing a graduate who ranked third in a Lagos State math competition among 60 schools. Montessori, she said, liberates children by fostering independence, confidence, critical thinking, and adaptability.
The Future of Education in Nigeria
Lawanson sees education as the engine of national transformation. She called for a curriculum that moves beyond grades to cultivate intrinsic motivation. Standardized examinations, especially at preschool and elementary levels, should be revisited to measure genuine understanding rather than memorization. She urged that seasoned educators be included in policy-making, as they understand the classroom. Teachers must be properly motivated and compensated, as a nation cannot rise above the quality of its teachers. She also advocated for openness to evidence-based teaching methods, noting that the world is evolving and education must adapt.
Advice for Parents
She advised parents to research Montessori thoroughly to avoid schools that claim the label without upholding its principles. Parents should focus on raising happy, well-rounded children instead of comparing them to others. Every child is unique, and comparison stifles growth. She stressed that Montessori is a global curriculum with consistent materials worldwide, though cultural expressions may vary. Understanding this helps parents choose the right environment and partner effectively with the school.
Continuous Learning and Innovation
Lawanson emphasized that learning is a continuous process. She stays updated through ongoing training, reading, and observation. Observation, she said, is a powerful tool for growth, revealing strengths and areas for improvement. Her goal is to raise children who are not only academically sound but also well-mannered, cultured, and truly educated. True education, she concluded, is not just what a child knows but who the child becomes.
