FG Begins Dual Degree Programmes In 15 Federal Colleges Of Education

The Federal Government has officially launched the concurrent implementation of bachelor’s degree programmes in 15 approved Federal Colleges of Education across Nigeria.

This development follows President Bola Tinubu’s recent assent to a new law allowing Federal Colleges of Education to award both the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) and bachelor’s degrees in education.

Speaking at a one-day sensitisation programme on ministerial deliverables and the education sector roadmap, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Education, Abel Enitan—represented by Director of Educational Planning, Julie Uzor—announced the rollout of the dual certification model.

“This policy allows colleges of education to concurrently award the NCE and bachelor’s degrees in education,” Enitan said. “As outlined in the Federal Colleges of Education Act, 2023, this dual mode enhances access, improves quality, and modernizes teacher training.”

He added that the Federal Government had also approved the establishment of more colleges to further boost enrolment and access to teacher education nationwide.

Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), Prof. Paulinus Okwelle, confirmed that preparations for the implementation are in full swing.

According to him, admissions into both NCE and degree programmes will begin in the 2025–2026 academic session, as advertised by JAMB.

“The amendment to the Federal Colleges of Education Act in 2023 provided the legal backing for this initiative. We’re confident it will raise enrolment figures and enhance the quality of teacher education,” Okwelle said.

He emphasized that the commission is ramping up monitoring and evaluation efforts to ensure the initiative is effectively implemented. He also highlighted the importance of improved pedagogical training in equipping teachers to meet modern classroom demands.

On lecturer welfare, Okwelle noted that the Federal Government is working to improve staff motivation through various initiatives, under the guidance of the Ministry of Education and in line with directives from President Tinubu.

Dr. Uche Uba, Director of Colleges of Education at the Federal Ministry of Education, described the dual degree rollout as a major step forward. She confirmed that the 15 participating colleges are already engaging with the National Universities Commission (NUC) to meet transition requirements.

“There is a clear implementation guideline in place. The colleges are working closely with the NUC, and all are complying with the set conditions to ensure a smooth and successful rollout,” she said.