About the webinar
For many teachers across Sub-Saharan Africa, access to professional development opportunities can be limited by challenges like poor internet connectivity, lack of resources, and geographic isolation. However, online Communities of Practice (CoPs) offer a powerful and accessible way to connect, learn, and grow—without the barriers of traditional training programs.
Join Fozia Temam, a dedicated member of the English Connects Telegram community (with over 5,000 teachers across the region), along with Abel Ochika and Blessing Epum, the group’s expert moderators, as they share practical strategies for making the most of these digital spaces.
This interactive session will explore how teachers can actively engage in online professional communities, collaborate effectively, and apply shared knowledge to enhance their teaching practice. Whether you’re new to a CoP or looking to deepen your engagement, this webinar will equip you with the tools to learn, grow, and thrive—no matter your location or connectivity challenges.
About the speakers
Abel E. Ochika, M.A. English Language, has over 15 years’ experience as a teacher of English language and teacher trainer in Nigeria. He is now a consultant for the British Council in SSA, and often presents at local and international academic conferences. His research interests are in TESOL, Digital Communication, Critical Discourse Analysis, Applied Linguistics, and Project-based Learning. He's passionate about inspiring teachers to be responsible for quality education by taking professional development more seriously.
Blessing Epum is one of the British Council’s social media consultants for Sub-Saharan Africa where she moderates posts on the Telegram Teachers CoP and the English Connects Teacher-educator CoP. She is passionate about enhancing the literacy skills of young learners in Africa and has pioneered a free virtual reading club for learners across Africa and Asia. She is also a strong advocate of home-school collaboration and has created platforms aimed at uniting the home and school by organising frequent webinars and conferences for both teachers and parents. She is currently the Head of Academics, Curriculum and Assessment in the school where she works in Lagos, Nigeria. She is passionate about digital literacy and currently running her Masters degree at the prestigious Nexford University where she is enrolled as a student in the Digital Transformation program.
Fozia Temam Mohammed is an English language teacher based in Hawassa (Ethiopia). With nearly two decades of experience in the field, Fozia has dedicated her career to fostering English language skills. In addition to teaching, she serves as a mentor, coach, and trainer in early-grade education. Currently, Fozia is a lecturer at Hawassa University and a PhD candidate. She is passionate about the importance of a strong early foundation for achieving academic success
Date recorded
Saturday 15 March 2025