The National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) is set to introduce a new competency-based digital curriculum across Nigeria’s colleges of education.
Executive Secretary of the NCCE, Angela Ajala, announced the initiative on Wednesday in Abuja while marking her first 100 days in office. She outlined a broad reform agenda focused on curriculum modernisation, digital transformation, skills acquisition, inclusive education, and the implementation of the dual-mandate policy.
Ajala emphasised the critical role of teacher education, describing it as “the foundation and bedrock of all other professions.” She stated that getting teacher preparation right is essential for securing Nigeria’s future.
The new curriculum aims to shift away from excessive theoretical content toward practical competencies, skills development, and digital learning. It will be fully digitised to support self-paced learning, remote teaching, and seamless access for students regardless of location.
“When we unveil the curriculum, you will see that whether a student is in class or at home, learning can continue seamlessly,” Ajala said. “A student will be able to access modules, watch self-paced videos, undertake assessments and complete projects independently.”
She added that the Commission is collaborating with the National Universities Commission (NUC) and other stakeholders to ensure the curriculum meets global standards. Partnerships with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) will also integrate digital literacy into teacher training.
Skills acquisition will be a major focus, enabling graduates to earn not only the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) but also additional skills certificates and in many cases, bachelor’s degrees under the dual-mandate framework.
Ajala acknowledged challenges such as funding constraints but noted support from development partners, donor agencies, and institutional leaders. She also commended President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, for prioritising education reforms.
The dual-mandate policy, which allows eligible colleges to award both NCE and bachelor’s degrees, will be implemented gradually, starting with selected institutions.
Chairman of the Committee of Provosts of Federal Colleges of Education, Dr Ademola Salami, described Ajala’s leadership as a “watershed moment” for teacher education in Nigeria, praising the emphasis on digitalisation, professionalisation of teaching, and stakeholder collaboration.
The reforms come amid concerns over declining enrolment in colleges of education and the need to produce teachers equipped for a technology-driven world. The NCCE is the regulatory body responsible for standards and accreditation in teacher education institutions nationwide.
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