Inyang Udo-Umoren is the Country Director of TaRL Africa in Nigeria.
What has your experience been so far working with TaRL Africa?
I have been working with TaRL Africa since 2019, and it has been a huge learning journey for me. As the first recruited person from Nigeria, I have had the opportunity to build relationships with government officials and contribute to the growth of the organization. TaRL Africa is a learning organization, and we constantly strive to improve our methods and impact.
In your opinion, what is the biggest challenge facing children today?
In my experience, one of the biggest challenges facing children today is the lack of strong teacher factors. This includes issues such as low teacher competencies, lack of mentorship, motivation, inadequate salaries, and inconsistency in support systems. I have observed that many children join our program with very low learning levels, but after a few months of intervention, their progress is significant. It highlights the need to address teacher development and support to ensure children receive a quality education.
What has been your biggest accomplishment so far?
One of my biggest accomplishments so far has been reaching 7 states in Nigeria within a span of 4 years. Although we haven’t reached all the states in the country, having a presence in these 7 states is significant progress for TaRL Africa. It demonstrates government recognition and visibility, and we could have chosen to implement our program in just one state. However, expanding our reach to multiple states showcases our commitment to reaching as many children as possible.
What’s the most unique part about working here?
The most unique aspect of working at TaRL Africa, based on my experience, is the unwavering focus on our mission. We stay true to the TaRL approach in all our programs and initiatives. Unlike some organizations that may get sidetracked or lose sight of their core objectives, we maintain a clear and dedicated focus on the TaRL methodology. This level of clarity and commitment ensures that every program and action we take aligns with our mission.
What does relaxation/unwinding look like for you?
For me, relaxation and unwinding involve having a social life and spending time with friends. Since I spend a significant amount of time in front of my computer at home, it’s important for me to balance work with social activities. Engaging with friends and enjoying their company helps me relax and recharge.
What is that one thing that your colleagues don’t know about you
One thing that my colleagues may not know about me is that I enjoy trying new recipes. Recently, I made Asun (peppered goat meat) for the first time, and I’m starting to develop a liking for cooking. It’s a hobby that allows me to explore different flavors and experiment in the kitchen.
Parting shot
There is a lot to learn in this world, and every day presents a new learning opportunity. I am grateful to be part of a great team in Nigeria, although managing a growing team can sometimes be challenging. Even with the headaches that come with it, our team is exceptional, and I appreciate their dedication and hard work.
