The Nigerian Federal Government has issued a directive mandating all secondary school teachers to obtain proper certification from the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN). This policy, aimed at bolstering professionalism within the teaching profession, links the accreditation of schools as examination centers to the TRCN certification status of their teachers. Beginning in 2027, schools will be disqualified as examination centers for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB), the National Examinations Council (NECO), and the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies Senior School Certificate Examination (NBIAS) if their teachers lack the required TRCN certification. This measure applies to both public and private secondary schools across the country. The phased implementation requires schools to achieve a 75% compliance rate by 2026, culminating in 100% compliance by 2027.
This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to raising the quality of education in Nigeria. By ensuring that all teachers possess the necessary qualifications and professional training, the government aims to improve teaching standards and learning outcomes for students. The directive also reflects a broader effort to professionalize the teaching profession and enhance its status. Linking school accreditation to teacher certification serves as a powerful incentive for schools to prioritize the employment of qualified educators, thus contributing to a more robust and effective educational system. The Ministry of Education believes that this decisive step will significantly improve the quality of education delivered in Nigerian secondary schools.
To facilitate the transition and support teachers in meeting the certification requirements, the government has outlined pathways for non-education graduates with teaching experience. Those with at least 12 months of classroom experience can enroll in a streamlined professional certification program offered by the National Teachers Institute (NTI). This program comprises short professional courses ranging from three to six months in duration, enabling participants to obtain TRCN registration and licensure. This provision acknowledges the valuable experience of existing teachers while ensuring they receive the necessary professional training to meet the new standards. The availability of this abridged program aims to minimize disruption and encourage widespread compliance with the new directive.
The Ministry of Education has emphasized the importance of collaboration between the federal and state governments in implementing this policy. State governments are urged to adopt the directive and ensure compliance within their respective jurisdictions. This joint effort is crucial for the successful implementation of the policy nationwide. The ministry has also stressed the need for widespread awareness and sensitization among stakeholders, including school administrators, teachers, parents, and students, to ensure a smooth transition and avoid any disruption to the conduct of public examinations. By engaging all stakeholders, the ministry aims to foster a shared understanding of the policy’s objectives and benefits.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has consistently advocated for the removal of unqualified teachers from Nigerian classrooms. He believes that this measure is essential to revitalize the teaching profession and restore its prestige. By setting clear standards for teacher qualification and actively enforcing them, the government seeks to elevate the teaching profession and attract more talented individuals to the field. This initiative aligns with the broader national goal of improving the overall quality of education and equipping Nigerian students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the 21st century.
The new directive represents a significant step towards strengthening the teaching profession in Nigeria. By requiring all secondary school teachers to obtain TRCN certification, the government is sending a clear message about the importance of qualified educators. This policy has the potential to significantly improve teaching standards and learning outcomes across the country. The provision of an abridged certification program for experienced teachers demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting teachers in meeting the new requirements. The collaborative approach between federal and state governments, along with the emphasis on stakeholder engagement, is crucial for the successful implementation of this transformative policy. Ultimately, this initiative aims to create a more professional, effective, and respected teaching profession, which will contribute significantly to the overall improvement of education in Nigeria.
