“I became a teacher to make a meaningful impact in my community” — Principal Saidu Jaji
Story by Maryam Saleh Isa
Sa’idu Jaji is the Principal of Government Day Junior Secondary School Chadi in Potiskum, Yobe State. In this exclusive interview with Neptune Prime, he talks about his life, career, and experiences in the education sector. He shares his journey from teaching to school leadership, his approach to guiding students, motivating teachers, and managing challenges, as well as his personal interests, values, and vision for the future of education in his community.
NP: Thank you very much for taking the time to speak with us today, Mr Saidu Jaji. To begin, could you kindly introduce yourself in detail by sharing your background, your journey through the education sector, and the responsibilities you currently handle as the Principal of Government Day Junior Secondary School Chadi in Potiskum, Yobe State?
Saidu: Thank you for inviting me. My name is Saidu Jaji, and I serve as the Principal of Government Day Junior Secondary School Chadi, a position that requires me to oversee both academic and administrative operations on a daily basis. My background is rooted in education, and throughout my career I have worked with students from different social and academic backgrounds. My responsibilities include coordinating teachers, ensuring discipline among students, implementing government policies, managing school records, encouraging community participation, and making sure that the educational environment remains supportive, balanced, and productive. I also focus on building strong relationships between the school and parents as well as guiding students toward good character and strong academic performance.
NP: What motivated you to choose education as your life career, and what factors later influenced your decision to move into leadership and administration?
Saidu: My motivation began when I was still very young. I admired the teachers in my community because they were respected, knowledgeable, and patient individuals who helped shape the future of children. As I grew older, I realised that education was not only about teaching lessons in the classroom but about guiding young people to discover their potential. When I joined the education sector, I quickly saw the importance of leadership and how a good administrator could transform the entire atmosphere of a school. I wanted to contribute more meaningfully and on a broader scale, and that is what encouraged me to pursue leadership roles. I became convinced that through administration I could help teachers perform better, help students receive more support, and ultimately help the entire school achieve stronger results.
NP: How many years have you dedicated to the education sector, and how have the lessons you learned along the way shaped your leadership style?
Saidu: I have dedicated many years to the education sector, beginning as a classroom teacher where I learned the importance of patience and communication. Later, when I took on administrative responsibilities, I discovered that leadership requires discipline, honesty, empathy, and the ability to work effectively with people from different backgrounds. These experiences taught me that every student has a unique story, every teacher has their own strengths, and every parent has concerns and expectations. All these lessons helped mold my leadership style into one that values openness, inclusivity, understanding, and careful planning.
NP: What are the core principles that guide your leadership philosophy, and in what practical ways do you apply those principles each day in your work?
Saidu: My leadership is anchored on fairness, humility, dedication, and accountability. I believe that leaders should not ask others to do what they themselves are not willing to do. Every day, I apply these principles by being punctual, respecting staff members, listening to student concerns, and ensuring transparency in decision making. I try to be approachable so that teachers feel free to share their challenges and ideas. I also encourage a culture of teamwork where everyone contributes to the progress of the school. Through consistency and clear communication, I make sure that the school environment remains stable, disciplined, and focused on learning.
NP: In your role as principal, which aspects of your job give you the greatest sense of satisfaction and purpose, and why do those aspects stand out to you?
Saidu: The most satisfying part of my job is witnessing student growth. There is a deep sense of fulfillment when a student who struggled academically eventually performs well because of collective effort and improved confidence. It also brings me joy when I see students developing good values, showing respect, working hard, and becoming responsible young individuals. Knowing that I played a part in shaping the lives of these students through guidance, administrative support, and creating an enabling environment gives me purpose and motivates me to continue improving the school every day.
NP: With leadership comes challenges. What are some of the most significant challenges you face as the principal, and how do you address them while maintaining school stability?
Saidu: One of the greatest challenges is dealing with inadequate resources, which affects both teaching and learning. Sometimes we need more classrooms, more teaching materials, and improved facilities. Another challenge is ensuring student discipline in an environment where some students face different social difficulties outside the school. To manage these challenges, I work closely with teachers, community representatives, and local authorities. We prioritize essential needs, encourage community contributions, and provide counseling for students who require guidance. Careful planning, communication, and teamwork play a major role in helping us overcome these obstacles.
NP: On a more personal level, what is your favorite food, and does it hold any special memories or cultural significance for you?
Saidu: My favorite food is Tuwo served with Miyan Kuka. This meal brings back warm childhood memories and carries cultural significance because it is often served during family gatherings and traditional ceremonies. The aroma, the taste, and the tradition behind it remind me of unity, hospitality, and the value of preserving cultural identity. Growing up, this meal symbolized love and togetherness, and it still gives me comfort and joy.
NP: What is your favorite color, and what personal meaning or emotional connection do you associate with that color?
Saidu: My favorite color is blue. I find blue calming and peaceful, and it reminds me of clarity, truth, responsibility, and stability. These qualities are important in leadership, especially in moments that require calm thinking and wise decision making. Blue also helps me stay grounded and reminds me that leadership requires patience, understanding, and emotional control.
NP: When you are not busy with administrative duties, what hobbies or leisure activities do you enjoy, and how do they contribute to your personal well being?
Saidu: I enjoy reading, especially books on leadership, history, and personal development. Reading broadens my understanding of different leadership styles and human behavior. I also enjoy taking long evening walks because they help me reflect on my day, clear my mind, and stay physically active. These activities provide balance in my life and ensure that I remain mentally refreshed and ready for the challenges of each new day.
NP: How do you manage to balance your demanding work schedule with personal commitments in a way that protects your mental and emotional wellbeing?
Saidu: Balance comes through careful planning and the discipline to separate work responsibilities from personal time. I try to complete most of my administrative tasks during school hours so that I can dedicate my evenings to resting and spending time with my family. I avoid carrying unnecessary stress home by addressing challenges promptly and communicating effectively. By maintaining routines that prioritize both work and personal life, I am able to protect my wellbeing and stay productive.
NP: What qualities do you most appreciate in students, and why do you believe those qualities are essential for their academic and personal growth?
Saidu: The qualities I value most in students are discipline, curiosity, humility, and determination. Discipline helps them develop self control and respect for others. Curiosity encourages them to ask questions and seek deeper understanding. Humility teaches them to listen and learn from others. Determination helps them remain focused on their goals even when faced with challenges. These qualities prepare students not only for academic success but also for responsible adulthood.
NP: In your observation, what improvements are needed in the educational system within your community to ensure long term progress and better outcomes for students?
Saidu: There is a need for improved facilities, including better classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and digital tools for learning. More professional development opportunities for teachers would also enhance the quality of instruction. Additionally, stronger collaboration between schools, parents, and community leaders would help build a more supportive educational ecosystem. Enhancing the welfare of teachers, improving student counseling services, and strengthening moral education would also contribute to long term progress.
NP: How do you keep your teachers motivated, especially during periods when they may feel overwhelmed by their responsibilities?
Saidu: I motivate teachers by appreciating their hard work, involving them in decision making, and creating opportunities for professional growth. I encourage them to share their challenges openly so that we can find solutions together. I also promote teamwork among staff members because collaboration reduces stress and increases creativity.
NP: How important is the role of parents in the academic success of students, and how do you encourage stronger parental involvement in school activities?
Saidu: Parents play a vital role in their children’s academic success. Their support at home reinforces the values taught in school. We encourage parental involvement by inviting them to meetings, organizing school events where they can participate, and maintaining open communication about their children’s progress. When parents understand their role and actively engage with the school, students show improved discipline, better academic performance, and stronger motivation.
NP: How do you approach student discipline in a way that corrects behavior without discouraging the child’s confidence or sense of belonging?
Saidu: I approach discipline through understanding, empathy, and counseling. When a student misbehaves, I first try to understand the reason behind the behavior. Sometimes the issue is related to family challenges, peer pressure, or academic struggles. By discussing the matter calmly and offering guidance, students learn to correct their actions without feeling humiliated. In cases where discipline must be enforced, it is done fairly and with the goal of teaching responsibility rather than causing fear.
NP: Could you share a memorable moment from your career that has significantly influenced you and continues to motivate you in your work?
Saidu: One unforgettable moment was when a student who had consistently struggled with his studies finally passed his examinations after years of hard work. His joy, his parents’ happiness, and the pride felt by his teachers left a lasting impression on me. It reminded me that every child has potential that can be unlocked with patience, guidance, and encouragement. This moment strengthened my belief in the power of education and continues to inspire me every day.
NP: What long term vision do you have for Government Day Junior Secondary School Chadi, and what steps are you taking to move toward that vision?
Saidu: My long-term vision for the school is to transform it into a leading junior secondary institution known for academic excellence, student discipline, and strong moral development. To achieve this, I am working on improving teaching methods, strengthening teacher training, enhancing student guidance programs, and advocating for improved infrastructure. I am also building partnerships with local stakeholders to support school development projects. I believe that with continued effort and cooperation, this vision will become a reality.
NP: Considering the rapid changes in the modern world, how do you integrate technology into learning despite the challenges facing many schools today?
Saidu: We integrate technology by using digital learning resources whenever possible, introducing students to basic computer skills, and encouraging teachers to explore online materials that complement classroom lessons. Although we face limitations such as insufficient devices, we are determined to gradually increase the presence of technology in our school. Our goal is to make students familiar with digital tools so that they can compete effectively in a world that increasingly relies on technology.
NP: What advice would you offer to young teachers who are just beginning their careers and may still be discovering their strengths and abilities?
Saidu: My advice is to remain patient, passionate, and open to learning. Teaching requires dedication, compassion, and strong communication skills. Young teachers should understand that they play a significant role in shaping the future of their students, and therefore they must constantly improve themselves. They should seek mentorship, ask questions, and never hesitate to learn from their colleagues. If they stay committed and maintain a positive attitude, they will find great satisfaction in this noble profession.
NP: Finally, what message would you like to share with your students as they continue their academic journey and prepare for the future?
Saidu: My message to students is to believe in themselves and remain focused on their dreams. Education is a powerful tool that can open countless opportunities, and they should make good use of it. Challenges may arise, but with hard work, discipline, and determination, they can overcome any setback. I encourage them to respect their teachers, remain humble, work patiently toward their goals, and always strive to become responsible individuals who will contribute positively to society.
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