The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to recruit 3,500 new teachers for Federal Unity Colleges across the country.
Dr. Yusuf Sununu, the Minister of State for Education, made this announcement at a two-day National Stakeholders’ Forum on Senior Secondary Education in Nigeria. The forum, which took place recently, focused on revitalizing senior secondary education to make it more globally competitive.
Sununu explained that the recruitment of these new teachers is part of the government’s broader strategy to improve the education sector. He emphasized that the initiative would not only bolster the quality of teaching but also help address the shortage of qualified teachers in Federal Unity Colleges.
The recruitment process will involve collaboration between the Ministry of Education, the Office of the Head of Service, and the Federal Civil Service Commission. Sununu assured that these agencies are working together to ensure a smooth and effective recruitment process.
In addition to hiring new teachers, the Ministry has organized extensive training programs for existing staff. Over 1,000 educators have already received training in the application of technology in education through the Ministry’s research resource center. This training is intended to enhance teaching methods and incorporate modern educational tools into the classroom.
The Minister also highlighted other recent developments aimed at improving education in Nigeria. More than 53 vocational skills acquisition centers have been established to help young people gain practical skills. This aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s agenda for renewing hope and improving the educational landscape.
Furthermore, the government has approved the construction of 50 additional model schools across the country. These schools are expected to provide better facilities and enhance the overall learning environment for students.
Sununu noted, “Today marks a significant step in our journey to enhance the quality of education for our young learners.”
He emphasized that senior secondary education is crucial as it shapes the future of students and, by extension, the nation. The government’s efforts are geared towards creating an education system that meets global standards and prepares students for the future.
During the forum, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives, stressed the need for a complete overhaul of the senior secondary curriculum. Represented by Rep. Mark Usani, Chairman of the House Committee on Basic Education and Services, Abbas highlighted several challenges facing the sector, including a shortage of qualified teachers, insufficient funding, and inadequate infrastructure.
Abbas’s call for curriculum reform is aimed at aligning Nigeria’s education system with global standards, ensuring that students are better prepared for the demands of the modern world.
Dr. Iyela Ajayi, Executive Secretary of the National Senior Secondary Education Commission (NSSEC), also spoke at the event. Ajayi emphasized the importance of stakeholder involvement in implementing the national policy on senior secondary education. He urged all stakeholders to actively participate in the process to ensure that the policy’s guidelines are effectively put into practice.
