The Federal Government has announced that effective September 2025, all Federal Colleges of Education (FCoEs) will start awarding bachelor’s degrees alongside the National Certificate in Education (NCE).

This development followed the implementation of the revised Dual Mandate Act, signed into law in 2023, which allows FCOEs to offer both qualifications.

Under the new guideline, only federal colleges of education that are at least 10 years old will be eligible to implement the dual-mode programme.

Additionally, only NCE holders will be considered for admission into the degree programmes, and university affiliations for degree awards will be phased out.

The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, who disclosed this during a strategic engagement with staff unions and management of FCoEs, said this approach will boost enrolment, enhance the quality of teacher education, and eliminate the need to convert colleges of education into universities.

Alausa also emphasised the need for college reforms, underlining the importance of adapting to modern demands and technological advancements.

He reminded that traditional teaching methods are no longer sufficient, and urged educators to integrate technology, critical thinking, and digital skills into their curricula.

He said: “We once had a strong educational system, and that’s what we are working hard to restore. We must tackle the high number of out-of-school children and reduce learning poverty nationwide. As teachers, you are at the centre of driving this change, and you must also challenge yourselves.

“The way we taught 30 or 50 years ago is no longer relevant. Education and teaching methods are evolving. You must start thinking about how to use technology in the classroom,” he added.

Alausa stressed the need for educators to harness educational technology (edtech) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve teaching and learning outcomes.

On the declining enrolment in Colleges of Education, the minister enjoined administrators and staff to support the ongoing reforms, reminding that the survival of these institutions depends on their ability to adapt.

“With this dual mandate, there is no need for conversion to university status. You should be the ones pushing for implementation, not the other way around. It’s a matter of your survival. The government has secured the future of Colleges of Education. It is now up to you to sustain them. Failure to embrace this mandate could lead to extinction.”

The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the reforms and improving the welfare of educators.

He also announced that the dual mandate would take effect from September 2025, urging institutions to prepare accordingly.

Responding, the President of Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU), Mr Smart Olugbeko, said the success of the dual mandate is hinged on addressing the various challenges and complexities.

He expressed hope that the government would work with other stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition and improved quality in teacher education.

The dual mandate, which permits Colleges of Education to award degrees and NCE qualifications, was signed into law in 2023.