FG Announces Date For Colleges Of Education To Start Awarding Degrees

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a significant reform in the nation's teacher education system. Starting from the 2025/2026 academic session, federal colleges of education will begin awarding bachelor's degrees alongside the traditional Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE). This dual-mode approach aims to enhance the quality of teacher training and address the shortage of qualified educators in the country.

Background and Legislative Framework

The move follows the passage of a bill in 2023 that amended the Federal Colleges of Education Act of 1998. This legislation empowers colleges of education to offer degree programs under the supervision of the National Universities Commission (NUC). Previously, these colleges could only offer degrees through affiliations with universities. The new law grants them autonomy to run degree programs independently, provided they meet accreditation requirements. 

Implementation Timeline

Initially slated for the 2024/2025 academic session, the implementation has been postponed to September 2025. The delay allows for adequate preparation, including curriculum development, staff training, and infrastructure upgrades. Only federal colleges of education that have been operational for at least ten years will participate in the program's first phase.

Objectives of the Reform

The primary goal of this reform is to elevate the status of the teaching profession in Nigeria. By enabling colleges of education to award degrees, the government aims to attract more qualified individuals into the teaching field. This initiative is also expected to reduce the pressure on these institutions to convert into universities, allowing them to maintain their focus on teacher training. 

Curriculum and Accreditation

The degree programs will focus on specialized areas of teaching, particularly in technical and vocational subjects where there is a shortage of qualified teachers. The National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) will collaborate with the NUC to ensure that the curriculum meets national standards and that the programs receive proper accreditation.

Stakeholder Reactions

The Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU) has expressed support for the reform. COEASU President, Dr. Smart Olugbeko, commended the government for assenting to the Colleges of Education Establishment Act, which grants colleges the autonomy to award degrees. He emphasized that this development would improve access to teacher education and ensure the production of professional teachers in the country.

Challenges and Considerations

While the reform is a positive step, several challenges must be addressed to ensure its success. These include upgrading facilities, recruiting qualified staff, and securing adequate funding. Additionally, to attract the best candidates, the public perception about the teaching profession must be changed.

Conclusion

The Federal Government's decision to allow colleges of education to award degrees marks a significant milestone in Nigeria's educational landscape. By enhancing the capacity of these institutions, the reform aims to produce a new generation of qualified teachers equipped to meet the demands of modern education. As the implementation date approaches, stakeholders must work collaboratively to address potential challenges and ensure the success of this initiative.