The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, has advocated for investment in teachers’ training to elevate the professionalism in the nation’s colleges of education.
Abbas addressed a public hearing in Abuja concerning bills aimed at amending the Federal Colleges of Education and National Teachers Institute Acts, organized by the Committee on Federal Colleges of Education.
He emphasized the paramount importance of teachers’ training and development, highlighting that investing in such programs and initiatives is synonymous with investing in the nation’s future.
Abbas underscored the pivotal role teachers play in effective teaching and learning within society, emphasizing their significance in personal and national development.
He articulated that teachers are not mere conveyors of knowledge but also mentors, guides, and role models who shape young minds into responsible citizens capable of meaningful contributions to society and instilling enduring values.
Education, he contended, is not merely a means for personal advancement but the foundation upon which nations are constructed.
By amending the Acts governing these institutions, there is an opportunity to enhance the training provided to aspiring educators, bolster their capabilities, and elevate standards, ensuring they are equipped with modern teaching methodologies, pedagogical skills, and subject matter expertise to maintain educational excellence.
“A proficiently trained teacher serves as a guiding light in a student’s educational journey,” he remarked.
Rep. Adamu Lakoja, Chairman of the House Committee on Federal Colleges of Education and National Teachers Institute, emphasized that the hearing centered on amending the existing NTI and FCE Acts, crucial for advancing education and fostering the professional development of educators.
He highlighted the pivotal role of FCE and NTI in training and preparing professional basic education teachers in Nigeria, serving as bastions of excellence in teacher education, and imparting aspiring educators with the requisite knowledge, skills, and expertise to shape the minds of Nigerian students.
Lakoja stressed the profound impact of quality teacher training on the education quality delivered to students.
