Oluwatumininu Lawanson, Director of Dew of Hermon Montessori School in Gbagada, Lagos, recently shared her insights on early childhood education in an interview. She emphasized the importance of building character over focusing solely on grades, and discussed the challenges and misconceptions surrounding Montessori education in Nigeria.
From Zoology to Montessori: A Personal Journey
Lawanson's path to Montessori education was unconventional. Initially aspiring to be a pediatrician, she studied Zoology after not gaining admission to medical school. She later worked in insurance before finding fulfillment as a teacher. Discovering the Montessori method was transformative. She described the training as life-changing, focusing on holistic, child-centered education. She completed training for the three-to-six age group, then for six-to-twelve, and is currently studying zero-to-three. In July 2012, with her husband's encouragement, she founded Dew of Hermon Montessori School.
Key Challenges Facing Montessori Schools in Lagos
Lawanson identified several challenges: staffing shortages, high costs of Montessori materials, rent, multiple taxation, and misconceptions about Montessori education. Certified Montessori educators are scarce, and many start their own schools or demand high salaries. Authentic Montessori materials are expensive but essential. Misconceptions include beliefs that Montessori is only for special needs children or that students cannot adapt to traditional schools. Lawanson countered these with examples of successful alumni, such as a student who ranked third in a Lagos State mathematics competition.
The Future of Education in Nigeria
Lawanson called for curriculum reform to prioritize intrinsic motivation over grades and rewards. She argued that standardised examinations at preschool and elementary levels should be re-evaluated, focusing on real understanding rather than memorisation. She urged that education policies involve experienced educators, and that teachers be properly motivated and compensated. She emphasized adopting evidence-based teaching methods that prepare children for a changing world.
Advice for Parents Considering Montessori
Lawanson advised parents to research and understand the Montessori method to avoid schools that claim to be Montessori but do not uphold its principles. She encouraged parents to focus on raising happy, well-rounded children rather than comparing them to others. She noted that Montessori is a global curriculum with consistent materials worldwide, differing only in cultural expressions.
Staying Current and Innovating
Lawanson stressed continuous learning through reading, attending workshops, seminars, and conferences, and engaging with online Montessori communities. She emphasized the importance of observation as a tool for growth. Her goal is to raise children who are academically sound, well-mannered, cultured, and truly educated, believing that true education is about who a child becomes, not just what they know.
