The Federal Government has granted approval to the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) to implement a Dual Mode system, allowing colleges of education to concurrently offer both degree programs and the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE). This decision aims to enhance access to teacher education, address low enrollment, and improve the quality of professional teachers across the country.
The Executive Secretary of NCCE, Prof. Paulinus Chijioke, announced the development during the 2024 National Teachers’ Day celebration, organized by the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU). He explained that the Dual Mode system would elevate the status of the teaching profession by attracting passionate and qualified individuals.
Prof. Chijioke stated, “This initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure that the teaching profession in Nigeria attracts the brightest and most passionate minds. It will also help in addressing the critical issue of low enrollment in teacher education programs while maintaining the highest standards in training.”
COEASU President, Dr. Smart Olugbeko, praised President Bola Tinubu for signing the Colleges of Education Establishment Act, which grants colleges the autonomy to award degrees in teacher education alongside the traditional NCE. Olugbeko highlighted the union’s commitment to professional excellence and the need for further government support in implementing the dual mandate.
“In line with the dual mandate, we have consistently encouraged our members to strive for higher academic achievements, professional excellence, and productivity,” said Olugbeko. “We have also initiated an upward review of career progression criteria for lecturers, ensuring that their qualifications and research outputs align with global standards.”
Olugbeko urged the Federal Government to expedite the full implementation of the dual degree system to meet the growing demand for qualified teachers in Nigeria. He stressed that COEASU was fully prepared for the new structure and ready to raise the bar for educational standards in the country.
In recognition of academic excellence, COEASU awarded N3.5 million to six outstanding students, one from each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
The union also honored several distinguished educators with legacy awards. Among the recipients were the Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), Sonny Echono, the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, former Deputy Governor of Bauchi State Alhaji Abdulmalik Mahmood, and other notable figures for their contributions to the education sector.
The implementation of the Dual Mode system is expected to transform teacher education in Nigeria, ensuring a steady pipeline of highly qualified educators capable of meeting the nation’s growing educational demands.
