The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has voiced strong opposition to the Federal Government’s proposal to exempt candidates applying for the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) from taking the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). The union warns that this move could further erode the quality of teacher education in the country.
Audu Amba, the National President of the NUT, expressed these concerns during a teacher sensitization workshop held in Abuja. The event was organized by 21st Century in collaboration with the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN). Amba lamented what he described as a worsening trend where colleges of education attract weaker candidates, as most high-performing students opt for universities, leaving teacher training institutions as a last resort.
He emphasized that the teaching profession should attract top academic talent, not those who couldn’t secure university admission. “Why can’t we ensure that those entering colleges of education to become teachers are among the highest scorers in UTME?” he questioned, highlighting the paradox of lowering entry standards for a field that forms the bedrock of national education.
Dr. Ronke Soyombo, Registrar of the TRCN, delivered a keynote address stressing the urgent need to reposition teachers for the digital economy. She noted that Nigeria’s educational future hinges on educators who are technologically adept, innovative, and professionally skilled to impart modern competencies.
Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, represented by Dr. Iyabo Ali, echoed this call for continuous capacity building, urging teachers to upgrade their digital and innovative skills to meet global standards. Other stakeholders, including House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas (represented by Dr. Mary Aba) and Senate Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro, called for stronger collaboration and professional commitment in the education sector.
Senator Moro raised alarms about the dilapidated state of Nigeria’s education system, noting that over 70% of schools lack adequate learning and teaching facilities. He warned that the widening gap between teachers and their working environment poses a serious threat to the country’s educational foundation and future development.