The Honourable Minister of State for Education, Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu, has advocated for a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s educational curriculum to ensure the development of highly skilled and competent teachers. Speaking at the recent Capacity Building for Master Trainers on Strengthening Teachers’ English Proficiency workshop held in Abuja, the Minister underscored the urgent need to revamp the curriculum, particularly within the Colleges of Education.
Dr. Sununu emphasized that this reform is essential to meet the evolving demands of teacher education, stating, “A thorough curriculum review is necessary to produce the new generation of qualified teachers required by our education system.”
He further noted the transformation taking place within Nigeria’s educational landscape, particularly as Colleges of Education are now tasked with offering both the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCCE) and degree programs concurrently. This expanded role, according to the Minister, calls for a modernized and flexible curriculum that can effectively address the challenges of a rapidly changing education sector.
“The quality of teachers is directly tied to the quality of the curriculum. To produce teachers capable of addressing 21st-century challenges, we must take decisive steps to review and strengthen our curriculum,” Dr. Sununu stated.
The Minister expressed confidence that ongoing reforms would result in a new generation of educators equipped with the skills necessary to drive national progress and sustainable development. He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance teacher education and improve the overall quality of education in Nigeria.
In his opening remarks, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), Prof. Paulinus Chijioke Okwelle, reiterated that the workshop aimed to enhance English proficiency among teachers. He highlighted the critical role of clear communication in both teaching and assessment, noting that improved language skills would directly benefit student comprehension and learning outcomes. Prof. Okwelle stressed the Commission’s mandate to ensure the quality of teacher education, as teachers are trained by the colleges.
Also speaking at the event, the Director of Colleges of Education, Dr. Uche Uba, highlighted that the push for curriculum reform aligns with the government’s broader agenda to promote innovation, digital literacy, and improved educational standards across all levels.
The Ministry of Education is expected to collaborate with key stakeholders to implement these necessary changes.
Boriowo Folasade Director
Press and Public Relations
