Delta Civil Servants Applaud Oborevwori Over Graduate Teachers’ Upgrade to SGL 17

Civil servants in Delta State have applauded the state government for approving the career advancement of university degree-holding primary school teachers up to Salary Grade Level (SGL) 17.

The approval, announced by the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), allows qualified graduate teachers in public primary schools to progress beyond SGL 14, where many had previously been stagnated.

According to a circular dated August 24, 2026, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori approved the advancement at the Joint Accounts Allocation Committee (JAAC) meeting held on July 29, 2026.

Reacting to the development, Mrs Beauty Omamurumu described the approval as a significant step that would boost teachers’ morale and encourage them to remain committed to their responsibilities.

She said recognising teachers based on their qualifications and professional development would improve morale within the public service.

Similarly, Mr Brown Igho welcomed the decision, saying it would encourage teachers who have acquired university degrees to place greater value on further academic and professional development.

He noted that primary school teachers play a critical role in children’s education by providing the foundation for their future academic growth.

Under the approved arrangement, eligible teachers will progress from SGL 14, designated as Principal Graduate Master I, to SGL 15, Special Graduate Master II, subject to passing a promotion examination conducted by SUBEB.

Advancement from SGL 15 to SGL 16 and subsequently to SGL 17 will be through oral interviews conducted by the Board.

SUBEB is also expected to constitute a committee to consider eligible staff in line with the approved cadres and requirements.

The policy is expected to motivate degree-holding teachers to pursue further qualifications while improving their prospects for career advancement within the public service.

Civil servants who welcomed the decision said better career prospects for primary school teachers could translate into improved commitment and productivity in the classroom.

They also expressed optimism that the implementation would be transparent and that all eligible teachers would have equal opportunity to benefit from the approved progression structure.

The approval has therefore been welcomed as a boost to Delta’s primary education workforce, with workers expressing hope that improved career progression will strengthen teachers’ morale and contribute to better learning outcomes across public primary schools.