In a groundbreaking development for the Nigerian education sector, the Federal Government has approved the upgrade of Federal Colleges of Education to degree-awarding institutions. This major reform allows these institutions to independently confer Bachelor’s degrees in education and other related fields, marking a significant step toward improving teacher education and aligning with global standards.
The Minister of Education announced the policy shift today, emphasizing the government's commitment to elevating the quality of teaching and learning across the country. With this approval, Federal Colleges of Education will now function as full-fledged degree-granting institutions, offering specialized undergraduate programs aimed at addressing the persistent shortage of qualified teachers and enhancing the status of the teaching profession.
“This decision is a milestone in the ongoing efforts to reform the education sector,” the Minister stated. “It reflects our resolve to produce highly competent, university-trained educators who are equipped to meet the challenges of modern teaching in Nigeria.”
The transition will be implemented in phases, with select pilot institutions already set to begin admitting students into Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) programs in the next academic session. The National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) will work closely with the National Universities Commission (NUC) to ensure curriculum alignment, accreditation, and quality assurance.
Stakeholders in the education sector, including teacher unions and academic bodies, have praised the development, noting that it will improve the career prospects of teachers, reduce the over-reliance on universities for degree certification, and make teacher education more accessible.