The Nigerian Senate has passed the second reading of a bill to establish a Federal College of Education in Igbekebo, Ondo State. The bill, sponsored by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim (APC/Ondo South), was first read on October 12, 2023, and has now progressed to the next legislative stage.
In his lead debate, Senator Ibrahim underscored the critical role of well-trained teachers in building a strong educational system. “The need to have a strong system in our educational sector that shall continuously produce well-qualified and trained teachers as it is obtainable in other developed countries cannot be overemphasized,” he stated.
Read Also: Wike’s enemies out to disrupt transformation of FCT into a model capital territory- CTJ
He highlighted the importance of colleges of education as drivers of national development, citing their role in fostering growth and expanding opportunities for professional training. “The realization that Colleges of Education are tools for national development, have led to an unbridled quest for, and vigorous expansion of Colleges of Education in Nigeria,” the senator added.
The proposed institution aims to provide academic and professional programs, promote inclusive learning, and equip students with adaptive skills across various disciplines. Senator Ibrahim expressed his vision for the college to produce educators capable of strengthening Nigeria’s educational system and contributing to economic growth.
In his concluding remarks, he urged his colleagues to support the bill, saying, “It is my prayer and ardent call on you to consider the plight of the people who are desirous to becoming professional teachers.”
The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has referred the bill to the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund for further legislative action. The committee is expected to provide its report in the coming weeks.
If established, the Federal College of Education in Igbekebo will enhance access to quality teacher training and contribute to the development of the nation’s educational sector.