The National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) has flagged off the process of merging the National Certificate in Education (NCE) and Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) curricula, in line with the Federal Government’s dual mandate policy. The validation meeting brought together key stakeholders, including the Committee of Provosts and COEASU, reflecting a united effort to reposition teacher education in Nigeria.

Addressing participants, the Executive Secretary of NCCE, Dr. Angela Ajala, described the meeting as a defining moment for the future of teacher education in Nigeria. Ajala stressed that the reform goes beyond expanding certification. She stated, “The introduction of the dual mandate is a defining moment, a reform that must be carefully shaped, collectively owned, and rigorously validated”. She added that it aims to reposition Colleges of Education as “competitive, attractive, and globally relevant institutions.”

Emphasising quality, she noted that “no curriculum achieves legitimacy until it has been tested against practicality, relevance and alignment with national priorities.” According to her, the goal is to produce teachers who are “adaptive professionals, equipped with digital competence, entrepreneurial thinking, and have the pedagogical depth required for 21st century classrooms.”

She highlighted the critical role of stakeholders, particularly COEASU, who, according to her, are the engine driving the success or failure of this reform. "This process will only succeed if it reflects your reality and earns your confidence,” she said, urging participants to assess its practicality and relevance. Warning on the national implications, Ajala stated, “You miss it with teacher education. You miss it with Nigeria because we are producing the next generation.”

Speaking after the meeting, COEASU President, Dr. Ahmed Lawan, said the initiative aligns with the Dual Mandate Act, 2023. He explained that the harmonised curriculum would enable students to spend five years earning a degree, maintaining a structured progression of three years for NCE and two years for the degree. He also commended the Executive Secretary’s leadership.

A major highlight was the inauguration of a joint committee comprising the Committee of Provosts, COEASU, and NCCE to drive the validation process. The meeting ended with a vote of thanks by the Chairman, Committee of Provosts, Dr. Adamu Ali, who appreciated stakeholders for their commitment to reforming teacher education in Nigeria.