The Federal Government has announced that Colleges of Education (COEs) will begin awarding bachelor’s degrees in addition to the National Certificate in Education (NCE) starting from September 2025.
Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, disclosed this during a stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja.
Implementation of Dual Mandate
The dual mandate, which was signed into law in 2023, allows COEs to award both bachelor’s degrees and NCE. Alausa said the implementation will boost enrolment in COEs and eliminate the need for them to convert to universities.
Reforms in Colleges of Education
The minister emphasized the importance of reforms in COEs to adapt to modern demands and technological advancements. He urged educators to integrate technology, critical thinking, and computational skills into their curricula.
Harnessing Technology
Alausa stressed the need for educators to harness educational technology and artificial intelligence to improve teaching and learning outcomes. He also warned that the survival of COEs depends on their ability to adapt to the reforms.
Survival of Colleges of Education
The minister urged administrators and staff to support the ongoing reforms, stating that the government has secured the future of COEs. He warned that failure to embrace the dual mandate could lead to extinction.