NCCE Chief Warns of Teacher Education Neglect in Nigeria

Angela Ajala, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), expressed concerns about the ongoing neglect of teacher education in Nigeria, stating it poses a significant threat to the nation's future. During a visit with the Education Correspondents Association of Nigeria (ECAN) in Abuja, Ajala highlighted that the quality of teachers is crucial for the strength of any profession, asserting that all professionals, including engineers, doctors, and politicians, are products of teachers.

She warned against the undervaluation of the teaching profession and its detrimental impact on society. Ajala noted a concerning decline in respect for teachers and emphasized the need for stronger collaboration with media to reshape public perception.

She also addressed the alarming attrition rates in teacher training institutions and the looming shortage of qualified teachers. Ajala defended recent policy changes regarding admission standards in colleges of education, asserting that these decisions were based on evidence and aimed at enhancing global competitiveness.

She called for curriculum reforms to align teacher training with global best practices.