FG: Colleges of Education to Start Awarding Degrees in September 2025
From Our Correspondent
Tunji Alausa has announced that colleges of education (COEs) will soon be allowed to award both bachelor’s degrees and the National Certificate in Education (NCE).
This dual mandate, signed into law in 2023 after extensive consideration by several committees, is set to be implemented.
Initially intended to take effect in the 2024/2025 academic session starting in September 2024, the program will now begin in September 2025, specifically for federal COEs that have been in operation for at least 10 years.
Alausa spoke on Tuesday in Abuja during a follow-up meeting regarding resolutions from the last biannual stakeholders’ meeting. He stated that this initiative would increase enrollment in COEs and eliminate the necessity to convert these institutions into universities.
He emphasized the importance of reforms within COEs to meet modern educational demands and embrace technological advancements. Alausa encouraged educators to incorporate technology, critical thinking, and computational skills into their curricula.
“We once had a strong educational system, and we are working hard to restore it. Everyone must contribute to this effort,” he stated. “We must address the high number of out-of-school children and reduce learning poverty across the country. As teachers, you play a central role in driving this change, and you must also challenge yourselves.”
He highlighted the outdated teaching methods from 30 or 50 years ago, stressing that education and teaching approaches are evolving.
Therefore, educators must consider how to integrate technology into the classroom effectively.
Alausa also underscored the necessity for educators to utilize educational technology and artificial intelligence to improve teaching and learning outcomes.
In addressing the declining enrollment in colleges of education, he urged administrators and staff to support the ongoing reforms, cautioning that the survival of their institutions hinges on their ability to adapt.
“With this dual mandate, there is no need for COEs to seek conversion to university status. You should advocate for its implementation—it is vital for your survival,” he warned.
“The government has secured the future of colleges of education, and it is now your responsibility to ensure their sustainability. Failing to embrace this mandate could lead to extinction.”
“With this reform, there is no justification for any college of education to pursue university status.”
