The State of Teacher Education in Nigeria
Dr. Smart Olugbeko, the outgoing National President of the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU), shares his insights on the state of teacher education in Nigeria and the importance of prioritizing this critical sector. In an interview, he highlights the challenges faced by the education system over the past 65 years and discusses the potential impact of the newly introduced dual mandate programs for colleges of education.
Assessing Nigeria’s Education Sector
Nigeria has not made significant progress in the education sector, particularly in teacher education, due to a lack of consistent government support. From the mid-1980s onwards, the sector has been neglected, which has contributed to the current economic challenges the country faces. Education is the foundation of development, and without quality education, a nation cannot advance. However, Nigeria often pays lip service to the sector, failing to recognize the crucial role that teachers play in shaping the future of the country.
Teachers are the backbone of any educational system, producing professionals across various fields. Despite this, they are often treated poorly, with inadequate salaries, poor working conditions, and insufficient infrastructure. This neglect must be addressed if Nigeria is to move forward.
Improving the Education Sector
To improve the education sector, there needs to be a comprehensive approach that includes better conditions for teachers, improved infrastructure in schools, and access to technology. Public schools require well-equipped libraries, science laboratories, and computer facilities. Students’ hostels must also be maintained to provide a conducive learning environment. Additionally, the government should create an enabling environment for private school operators to thrive.
While the current administration has made some efforts, such as reintroducing technical and vocational education, there is still much to be done. The dual mandate policy, which allows colleges of education to award both NCE and degrees concurrently, is a positive step. It encourages more talented individuals to pursue teaching careers and enhances the quality of education.
Understanding the Dual Mandate Policy
The dual mandate policy aims to reduce the time it takes for NCE holders to obtain a degree. Instead of spending seven years, students can complete their studies in five years: three years for the NCE and two years for the degree. This model was previously used and allowed graduates to teach at both the basic and secondary levels. By making teacher education more attractive, the policy could help address the shortage of qualified teachers.
The Importance of Recognizing Teachers
Teachers need to be recognized for their contributions to society. Despite their vital role, they are often overlooked in favor of other professions. For example, many students prefer to study law, medicine, or engineering because these fields offer better financial rewards and social status. This trend must change, as the future of Nigeria depends on its teachers.
The Nigerian National Merit Award (NNMA) should also include teachers, as there are many deserving individuals among the over 500,000 teachers in the country. Recognizing their achievements would encourage them to continue contributing to the education sector.
Hope for the Future
Despite the challenges, Dr. Olugbeko believes there is hope for the education sector. He compares the situation to someone who is ill but still has a chance of recovery. As long as there is commitment and effort, the sector can improve.
Celebrating World Teachers’ Day
As COEASU prepares to commemorate World Teachers’ Day, the union has planned several events in Abuja. These include a scholarship award for the best student, recognition of individuals who have contributed to teacher development, the unveiling of an academic journal, and the installation of a new executive committee.
Honoring Educators
Several notable individuals will be honored during the event, including Professor Kabiru Isyaku, Dr. Yusuf Sununu, Professor Jamila Shu’ara, Mr. Abdulmumin Oniyangi, and Professor Josiah Ajiboye. Their contributions to education and teacher development have been significant, and their recognition serves as an inspiration for others.
Addressing the ASUU Strike
While Dr. Olugbeko cannot speak for the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), he acknowledges that the union’s ultimatum may stem from unresolved discussions with the government. He emphasizes that strikes are a legal option when dialogue fails, but he refrains from commenting further on the matter.
