The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, has called for investment in teachers training in order to enhance professionalism in the nation’s colleges of education.
Abbas spoke in Abuja at a public hearing on bills aimed at amending the Federal Colleges of Education and National Teachers Institute Acts.
The public hearing was organised by the Committee on Federal Colleges of Education.
Abbas harped on the importance of teachers’ training and development.
According to him, investing in teacher training programmes and professional development initiatives is tantamount to investing in the future of the nation.
He said that teachers held the key to effective teaching and learning in society, adding that they were critical as education was crucial to personal and collective national development.
“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.
“They shape young minds into responsible citizens capable of contributing meaningfully to society and instill values that will last a lifetime.’’
He said education was not merely a tool for personal advancement and success, adding that it was the bedrock upon which nations were built.
“By amending the Act governing these institutions, we have an opportunity to enhance their training received by aspiring educators, improve their capacity, and improve standards.’’
He said it would ensure that teachers were equipped with modern teaching methodologies, pedagogical skills, subject matter expertise and ensure that they remained at the forefront of educational excellence.
“A well-trained teacher is a beacon of light in a student’s educational journey,” he said.
Rep. Adamu Lakoja, Chairman, House Committee on Federal Colleges of Education and National Teachers Institute, said the hearing focused on the Bill to amend the existing NTI and FCE.
He said it was crucial in advancing the field of education and ensuring the professional development of our educators..
“It is noteworthy that the FCE NIT 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 said.(NAN)
By Femi Ogunshola
