Dr. Tunji Alausa, Nigeria's Minister of Education, has emphasized the importance of Colleges of Education (COEs) fully adopting the dual mandate policy, which enables these institutions to award both bachelor’s degrees and National Certificate in Education (NCE) qualifications. He believes this move will improve enrollment, enhance the quality of teacher education, and eliminate the need for COEs to transition into universities.

Speaking during a follow-up meeting in Abuja with stakeholders discussing the resolutions from the previous Biannual Stakeholders’ Meeting, Dr. Alausa stressed the need for COEs to modernize and adapt to current educational trends by integrating advanced technologies and innovative teaching methods. He noted that traditional teaching techniques are no longer enough to meet the demands of today’s learners.

“Education and teaching methods are evolving. What was effective 30 or 50 years ago is outdated. To improve learning outcomes, it is essential to incorporate technology in classrooms,” Alausa stated, urging educators to use educational technology (edtech) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance teaching and learning.

The minister also warned that COEs' survival depends on their ability to embrace reform. “With the dual mandate in place, there is no need for any College of Education to seek university status. This presents an opportunity for growth, but it requires active implementation of the new policies. Failing to adapt could result in the closure of these institutions,” he said.

The dual mandate, signed into law in 2023, will be implemented in the upcoming academic session in September. Alausa called on COEs to begin preparations for the changes, highlighting that the future sustainability of these institutions relies on their ability to embrace this new framework.

In response, Mr. Smart Olugbeko, President of the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU), acknowledged the challenges posed by the dual mandate but expressed confidence that with proper government support, the transition could be successful. He called for collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure the mandate’s success and improve teacher education standards.

This new policy, which enables COEs to award both degrees and NCE qualifications, presents a unique opportunity for these institutions to strengthen their role in the educational system without the need to become universities. The government’s push for modernization emphasizes the importance of COEs adapting to the evolving needs of education in the 21st century.