A bill seeking to establish the Federal College of Education in Afon, Kwara State, passed its second reading in the House of Representatives yesterday.
The bill, sponsored by Hon. Muktar Shagaya, was initially introduced on July 25, 2023. Leading the debate on the bill’s general principles, Shagaya emphasized its critical importance to Nigeria’s educational sector and national development.
“Education is the bedrock of every society,” Shagaya stated, underscoring the necessity of a robust educational system supported by qualified and well-trained teachers who can impart knowledge, skills, discipline, and values to students.
Highlighting a disparity in the nation’s educational infrastructure, Shagaya pointed out that Kwara State remains among a minority of states without a federal college of education.
“Mr. Speaker, colleagues, permit me to highlight a glaring inequity in our nation’s educational system. Kwara State, despite its strategic location and rich cultural and educational heritage, lacks a federal institution for teacher training and professional development. This is in stark contrast to the progress recorded in other states, leaving Kwara underserved,” he remarked.
Shagaya argued that establishing the institution would enhance equitable access to quality education, address the shortage of qualified teachers, and promote local and regional development. Additionally, he linked the proposal to the Federal Government’s Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP), which prioritizes improving teacher quality and capacity-building in the education sector.
“This initiative is not merely about addressing inequity; it represents a critical investment in the nation’s future,” Shagaya asserted. “The establishment of the Federal College of Education in Afon will reduce educational inequality, enhance teacher quality, and boost the overall standard of education in Nigeria.”
The bill seeks to tackle educational disparities, bolster teacher training, and foster economic growth through improved educational systems. If enacted, it is expected to contribute significantly to achieving the nation’s development goals while advancing equity and opportunity in education.
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