The Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU) has called on the Federal Government to expedite the release of the white paper that will enable Colleges of Education (CoEs) to offer both NCE (National Certificate in Education) and B.Ed (Bachelor of Education) degrees, in accordance with the Act establishing them.
COEASU National President, Dr. Smart Olugbeko, emphasized that the implementation of this dual mandate is crucial for the advancement of teacher education in Nigeria. He noted that colleges of education have been awaiting the white paper, which is essential for moving forward with the new mandate. This anticipation follows the completion and submission of a detailed report in July 2023 by a committee established by the Federal Ministry of Education. The committee was tasked with developing the modalities for the smooth implementation of the Act.
Dr. Olugbeko made these remarks during the 2024 National Conference on Digital Pedagogy and its Implications for Nigeria, held in Abuja. He highlighted the importance of timely government action to ensure that colleges of education can adequately prepare to offer degree programs alongside their traditional NCE programs. This, he argued, would not only enhance the quality of teacher education but also align with global educational standards.
The COEASU president also stressed that implementing the dual mandate would require significant adjustments in curriculum, staffing, and infrastructure, and that the prompt release of the white paper is essential for colleges to begin these preparations. He called on the Federal Government to prioritize this issue, reflecting its commitment to improving the educational sector and addressing the growing demand for qualified teachers in Nigeria.
Photo credit: COEASU website
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