There is good news from the federal government for Colleges of Education (CoE) in the country: they can now run degree and Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) programmes concurrently.
The good news was broken by the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Colleges Education (NCCE), Professor Paulinus Chijioke.
Speaking at the 2024 National Teachers’ Day celebration organised by the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COASU), he said the policy was aimed at improving access to teacher education in the country.
Also on target with the policy, was arresting low enrolment, and ensuring quality production of professional teachers in the country.
“In line with the implications of the dual mandate, we have continually charged all members of our union to refocus towards higher academic attainments, professional excellence, and productivity.
“Let me put it on record that pursuant to the degree awarding status, our Union initiated an upward review in the criteria for career progression for College of Education lecturers with a view to ensuring that the qualifications and research output requisite for rank attainment in Colleges of Education match global standards and justify the highly anticipated institution of professorial cadre.
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“We are ready for this and we urge the Federal Government to without further delay see to the implementation,” he said
He underscored the importance of elevating the teaching profession so that it would attract the brightest persons.
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