By Gloria Ikibah
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, has said that teachers hold the key for effective teaching and learning in society, even as they are critical as education is crucial to personal and collective national development.
Speaker Abbas who stated this at a public hearing on some bills to amend the Federal Colleges of Education and National Teachers Institute Acts organized by the House Committee on Federal Colleges of Education, reiterated the importance of teachers’ training and development.
He said: “The training and development of teachers are paramount in ensuring quality education for all. Teachers are not just purveyors of knowledge; they are mentors, guides, and role models who shape young minds into responsible citizens capable of contributing meaningfully to society and instill values that will last a lifetime.
“By investing in teacher training programs and professional development initiatives, we are investing in the future of our nation”.
According to him, “education is not merely a tool for personal advancement and success; it is the bedrock upon which nations are built”.
“It is through education that we empower our youth, instill values of critical thinking and innovation, and equip them with the skills necessary to navigate an increasingly complex world.
“The importance of education transcends national boundaries and is recognized globally as a fundamental human right. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals underscore the critical role of education in achieving a more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable world.
“By prioritizing education reform through legislative amendments such as those proposed in these bills, we are aligning ourselves with international best practices and demonstrating our commitment to providing quality education for all.
“The proposed amendments to the Federal Colleges of Education and National Teachers Institute Acts signify a step towards enhancing the quality of teacher training programmes in our country.
“By updating these legislative frameworks, we aim to align our educational institutions with our national development priorities and global best practices, ensuring that our teachers are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their profession.
“Federal Colleges of Education play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of educators who will mold the minds of our youth. These institutions serve as training grounds for teachers who are entrusted with the noble task of imparting knowledge and nurturing future leaders.
“By amending the Act governing these institutions, we have an opportunity to enhance their enhance the training received by aspiring educators, improve their capacity, improve standards, ensuring that they are equipped with modern teaching methodologies, pedagogical skills, subject matter expertise and ensure that they remain at the forefront of educational excellence. A well-trained teacher is a beacon of light in a student’s educational journey,” he added.
Chairman of the Committee, Rep. Adamu Lakoja, explained that the hearing is focused on bills to amend the existing National Teachers Institute’s Act, and seek to establish new Federal Colleges of Education: the FCE (Technical) Fufore, Adamawa State, FCE (Special), Dukku. Gombe State, and FCE (Technical) Otan-Ayebaju. Osun State.
He stated that this was crucial in advancing the field of education and ensuring the professional development of our educators.
“It is noteworthy that the Federal Colleges of Education and the National Teachers Institute play an important role in training and equipping professional basic education teachers in Nigeria.
“These institutions serve as pillars of excellence in teacher education, providing aspiring educators with the knowledge, skills, and expertise needed to mold the minds of the Nigerian students.
“The impact of quality teacher training cannot be overstated, as it directly influences the quality of education imparted to our students,” he stated.