Category: Education

FG imposes 1-year moratorium on registration of new polytechnics, monotechnics

Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, has approved a one-year moratorium on new applications for polytechnics and monotechnics.

He however exempted health institutions due to low enrollment challenges.

This is contained in a statement by the Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Prof. Idris Bugaje on Thursday in Kaduna.

Bugaje said the moratorium which takes immediate effect means that all new applications for polytechnics and monotechnics are put on hold for 12 months.

He, however, said institutions currently being assessed will be required to pay specific fees to continue the registration process.

“Polytechnics awaiting ministerial approval will be required to pay an application fee of N4 million and a processing fee of N2 million per programme of study.

“Monotechnics, on the other hand, will pay an application fee of N2 million and a processing fee of N1 million per programme of study.

“Applicants have 30 days to pay these fees, failure to which will result in the termination of the registration process.

“New health institutions, which are exempted from the moratorium, will pay the same fees as Monotechnics for registration,” he said.

According to the NBTE executive secretary, the objective of the move is to ensure that tertiary Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions are properly populated within their approved carrying capacities. (NAN)

February 13, 2025
100 days in office: Okpebholo renovating, reconstructing 100 schools

BENIN CITY – AS part of his desire to make an immediate impact, Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State, is reconstructing and renovating structures in 100 schools across the state to mark his 100 days in office.

Chairman, Edo State Universal Basic Education Board, SUBEB, Mrs. Onomen Brigg stated this when she accompanied the member representing Edo South on the Board, Mrs. Angela Okpamen to visit school facilities in the state.

She also called on communities where schools are located, parents and residents to help check vandalism of schools’ facilities, adding that Governor Okpebholo was already including fencing of all the schools in the state.

She visited Ebo Primary School in Iyekhogba and Ore-Oghene Primary School both in Oredo Local Government Area and Evbareke Junior Secondary School, Use Junior Secondary School and Okhekhugbo Primary school in Egor Local Government Area of the state, where she said all the renovation and reconstruction works would be competed between one week to three weeks.

According to her, “Security is one major issues we have to look into and we also have to sensitise the communities, so that they can put an eye on these property because the children are the ones that will suffer if these facilities are destroyed, if these thefts and vandalism continue.”

so we need to sensitise the people and the community, everybody involved, the teachers, and the pupils and students, so that if they see anything they can say something

“Fences are part of the security arrangement, so we are also going to make sure that these schools have fences and security posts, so that you can only come into the compound through the security post. This is

also key to us and the governor has already started. Most of the construction going on, fencing is part of what he is looking at.

“We did five today, we have a100 currently going on all across the state, we are going to Edo Central and Edo North within the week

“The construction and the renovation includes furnishing, so the chairs and the tables are already part of it. You can’t put a new wine in an old wine skin, so you can’t get new chairs and tables and put them in a dilapidated building, so we need the buildings to be good and okay, then furniture can go in.

“Some of them will be completed in one week, some less than a week and then two week and maximum three weeks,” she said.

It was observed that in many of the schools visited, the pupils lacked furniture as many sat on the floor while some where overcrowded with about 200 students of four arms using one classroom.

February 11, 2025
JSS, SSS not scrapped – Minister

Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has debunked media reports suggesting that the federal government has scrapped the Junior Secondary School (JSS) and Senior Secondary School (SSS) and replaced them with a new 12-year uninterrupted basic education model.

The minister, who insisted that the reports were not true, explained that he only submitted a proposal seeking to migrate to 12 years of compulsory education while retaining the current 6-3-3-4 structure.

The minister had on Thursday during the 2025 Extraordinary National Council of Education, a meeting of the highest policymaking body, held in Abuja, proposed a 12-year basic education model in Nigeria.

He said it was prudent to transition from the 6-3-3-4 to the 12-4 system of education.

His proposal was misrepresented by a section of the media which reported that the government had scrapped JSS and SSS and replaced them with a new 12-year uninterrupted basic education model.

But addressing the media on Friday, the minister debunked the reports, saying he merely “presented a proposal for discussion—not an immediate policy change. “

According to him, “The proposal seeks to migrate to 12 years of compulsory education while retaining the current 6-3-3 structure.”

He said: “The attention of the Federal Ministry of Education has been drawn to misleading reports suggesting that the Federal Government has scrapped Junior Secondary School (JSS) and Senior Secondary School (SSS) and replaced them with a new 12-year uninterrupted basic education model. We wish to categorically state that this is not true.

“At the Extraordinary National Council on Education (NCE) Meeting held on February 6, 2025, in Abuja, I presented a proposal for discussion—not an immediate policy change. The proposal seeks to migrate to 12 years of compulsory education while retaining the current 6-3-3 structure.

“A key aspect of this proposal is to eliminate the examination barrier between JSS and SSS, allowing for a seamless transition of students without the hurdles of an external assessment at that stage. However, this is still a subject of consultation and deliberation.

“To ensure a well-informed decision, the Ministry will undertake extensive stakeholder engagements over the next eight months, consulting widely with education policymakers, state governments, teachers, parents, and other key players. The final decision on whether to adopt this reform will be made at the October 2025 National Council on Education Meeting.”

He urged the public to disregard the false claim that JSS and SSS have been scrapped.

“The Federal Government remains committed to policies that enhance access to quality education while aligning with global best practices,” he said.

February 7, 2025
Minister pushes for transition from 9-3-4 to 12-4 system of education

Abuja-The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has proposed a 12-year basic education model in Nigeria.

The minister, speaking on Thursday, at the 2025 Extraordinary National Council of Education, a meeting of the highest policymaking body, held in Abuja, insisted that it is prudent to transition from the 9-3-4 to the 12-4 system of education.

“By doing so, Nigeria will align with global standards in preparing students for better tertiary education.”

“A 12-year basic education model will ensure a continuous, uninterrupted curriculum, promoting better standardization and fostering quality assurance in the education system.

“It will also guarantee that students receive a more comprehensive and continuous learning experience, improve educational outcomes, and contribute to a more educated populace that drives Nigeria’s economic development.

“A second key agenda to be discussed today at the extraordinary meeting is the conversion of federal science and technical colleges into federal technical colleges,” he said at the event.

Alausa pointed out that some of the issues influencing the convening of the extraordinary National Council of Education meeting include the introduction of a 12-year basic education system in Nigeria’s education framework and the approval of a national policy on bullying, among others.

“It is important to acknowledge that while the 9-3-4 system of education has its merits, it also has drawbacks, such as the need for students to work in order to further their education,” Alausa explained.

He also mentioned that the Council would be discussing the 16-year policy on admission into tertiary institutions, which is to be incorporated into the national policy on education.

“I am sure many of you have heard about the challenges we face as a nation with talented, bright students being disenfranchised from pursuing tertiary education. In any society, it is crucial to standardize the education of exceptionally gifted students who are highly functional.

“We are now preventing these students, after finishing secondary education at the age of 16, from attending university until they are 18. This delays their development and harms their futures. These students are capable and brave. If we leave them idle, we risk exacerbating mental health issues,” he said.

Commenting on the planned conversion of federal science and technical colleges to federal technical colleges, the minister explained that technical education, which imparts practical and applied skills alongside basic scientific knowledge, is crucial for addressing the current skills gap in the labor market.

He said:”The provision of technical education allows a nation’s human and natural resources to be harnessed more effectively. Therefore, technical education contributes significantly to national development, driving cultural and industrial progress.”

Recall that Nigeria currently operates the 9-3-4 system, which consists of nine years of basic education, three years of senior secondary education, and four years of tertiary education.

February 7, 2025
NUT declares indefinite strike in 7 Ebonyi LGAs over non-payment of salaries

Abakaliki — The Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) in Ebonyi State has declared an indefinite strike in seven local government areas due to the non-payment of four months’ salaries to some teachers.

In a statement released by NUT Secretary, Bassey Asuquo, the affected local government areas were listed as Ebonyi, Edda, Ezza South, Ezza North, Ivo, Ishielu, and Ohaukwu.

“Following our earlier notice on mobilization for industrial strike action, we have thoroughly reviewed the compliance of local government chairmen regarding the clearance of our members’ salaries.

“As of the close of work on February 5, 2025, we acknowledge that certain local government areas have cleared the salaries of our members.

“However, we regret to inform you that several local government chairmen have failed to clear the backlog of our members’ outstanding salaries.

“In response to this non-compliance, we hereby declare an indefinite strike in the following Local Government Areas: Edda, Ebonyi, Ezza South, Ezza North, Ishielu, Ivo, and Ohaukwu,” the statement read.

The NUT directed its state and branch officers in the affected LGAs to strictly enforce the strike from 12:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 6, 2025.

“We call on all members to remain steadfast and continue their support for the strike action. This includes organizing and maintaining solidarity picket lines and monitoring compliance across the affected localities,” Asuquo added.

Pupils who went to school today were reportedly sent home by union leaders and teachers.

As of the time of this report, the State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Paul Nwobasi, had summoned a meeting with the affected local government chairmen and union executives in an effort to resolve the matter.

February 6, 2025
Reps move to transform Michael Okpara University into Conventional University

The House of Representatives has passed a bill through its second reading seeking to transform Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, into a conventional university.

The proposed legislation, titled “Bill Seeking for an Act to Establish Michael Okpara University, Umudike, to Make Comprehensive Provisions for Its Due Management and Administration and for Related Matters,” was sponsored by Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu and six other lawmakers.

Leading the debate, co-sponsor Hon. Kelechi Nwogu recalled that the university was originally established in November 1992 as a specialized institution focused on agriculture and related sciences, in line with the Federal Universities of Agriculture Act, Cap F22, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

Nwogu emphasized the need to transform the university into a conventional institution to expand its academic scope. He explained that such a transformation would foster interdisciplinary research, encouraging collaborations between agriculture and fields like engineering, health sciences, and social sciences.

The lawmaker further pointed out that integrating agricultural studies with engineering could drive innovations in mechanized farming, while partnerships with health sciences could enhance research in nutrition and food security.

Nwogu expressed optimism that the transition would bring numerous benefits, including the diversification of academic programs, increased research opportunities, more funding, and better global recognition.

“The transition to a conventional university would allow MOUAU to offer a broad range of academic programs in fields like Arts, Medicine, Law, Social Sciences, and Humanities,” he stated. “This diversification would attract a larger, more varied student population, making MOUAU a hub for learners from diverse backgrounds.”

He also noted that the university could expand into emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and environmental sciences, preparing students for future job market demands.

Nwogu emphasized that conventional universities often have access to a wider range of funding sources, which would complement the existing agricultural research grants with additional support for technology, medicine, and social sciences.

Additionally, he highlighted that the transformation would elevate the university’s recognition both globally and locally, as universities with a broad academic offering are typically ranked higher.

After the debate, Deputy Speaker Kalu, who presided over the session, called for a voice vote. The bill passed and was referred to the Committee on University Education for further consideration.

February 6, 2025
PwC graduate trainee: How, where to apply

PricewaterhouseCoopers, PwC, Nigeria, has announced opening of applications for its graduate trainee programme.

PWC, a leading professional services firm, announced on X (Twitter) that it is seeking talented graduates for its Assurance Graduate Programmes, Consulting and Risk Services, and Deals Graduate Programmes.

The statement read: “Are you ready to make a difference? Invest in your future with a leading global professional services firm?

“Join our community of solvers. Graduate opportunities 2025 in assurance, consulting & risk services, and deals.

“At PwC, our purpose is to build trust in society and solve important problems. With a network of over 370,000 people across 149 countries, we provide a platform for you to be yourself, grow as an individual, build lasting relationships, and deliver impactful solutions.

‘What you gain’

“Our first job is something special and kicking off your career with PwC is extraordinary, particularly as a new graduate.

“If you join us, you get access to a global network of specialists who will help you to learn, grow and develop into the accomplished professional you aspire to be.

“We welcome graduates from diverse academic backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. You’ll begin your journey alongside other graduates, learning from each other just as much as you’ll learn from us.

“Along the way, you’ll build lifelong connections and have countless opportunities to innovate and create.

“Join us, and let’s build something great together! Professional qualifications are key to your career growth, and we’ll provide the support and resources you need to excel in your exams.

“Additionally, our global network offers valuable international development opportunities to help you expand your expertise and reach new heights.”

Requirements, how, where to apply for PwC graduate trainee programme

To be eligible for the PwC 2025 Graduate Trainee Programme, applicants must:

Hold a minimum of a second-class upper division in any discipline from a recognized university.
Completed the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, programme
Have a minimum of second class or its equivalent.
Interested graduates can apply using this link HERE.

February 6, 2025
Netzence trains EHCON, AMAC Staff to combat emissions

ABUJA – In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable development, Netzence Sustainability Limited has launched a comprehensive training program for staff members of the Environmental Health Council of Nigeria (EHCON) and the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC).

The training, focused on data collection and utilization of the innovative CloseCarbon platform, is designed to support the installation and onboarding of banks, hotels, and supermarket chains in Abuja. This initiative marks a significant step towards achieving Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.

According to Dr. Sadiq Sani, Founder/CEO of Netzence, “Our goal is to create a knowledgeable workforce within EHCON and AMAC that can effectively monitor emissions, promote compliance with environmental regulations, and support the development of a low-carbon economy in Abuja.”

“The training program includes modules on understanding carbon emissions, data collection techniques, utilization of the CloseCarbon platform, stakeholder engagement, and field practice. These modules are designed to equip participants with practical skills and knowledge to support the effective monitoring and management of greenhouse gas emissions in Abuja.

“Industry experts emphasize the importance of this collaboration in ensuring air quality standards are established and maintained, ultimately benefiting public health and supporting sustainable development in Abuja.

“This initiative demonstrates the commitment of Netzence, EHCON, and AMAC to addressing the urgent need for climate action in Nigeria,” said Idia Ogedegbe, Chief Operations Officer at Netzence. “We are proud to be part of this effort and look forward to seeing the positive impact on the environment and local communities.

“As the training program progresses, its impact will be closely monitored, with Netzence, EHCON, and AMAC committed to ensuring Abuja meets its emissions targets and sets a benchmark for sustainability efforts across Nigeria.

“This initiative has the potential to position Abuja as a leader in integrated environmental management, serving as a model for cities nationwide. By empowering EHCON and AMAC staff with vital skills in data collection and emissions management, Netzence Sustainability Limited is paving the way for a greener future in Nigeria.

February 6, 2025
Please recruit teachers now, schools suffering – APC chieftain begs Adeleke

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Osun State, is pleased with Governor Ademola Adeleke for completing the teachers’ recruitment process to reduce the scarcity of teachers in public schools.

He also charged both the Federal and State Governments across the country to make education attractive to reduce out-of-school children across the country.

Speaking at the distribution of free 500 West African Examination Council, WAEC, and 300 Join Admission and Matriculation Board, JAMB forms to students from the Ejigbo local government area of the state.

He said the teachers are a crucial component of the education system, stressing that the structures is not enough to impact knowledge on students.

His words, “I will encourage the government of Osun State to do more for education. The truth must be said the government has not done well in terms of education in Osun State. We have schools in Ejigbo that do not have teachers, I want to appeal to them to come to our aid, and let them employ more teachers.

“In the last two years, this government has not employed any teachers compared to Oyo State where they are employing teachers massively. We are appealing to the government to do something about it.

“The funds that government has is for the entire state and they must look into education. If any development will come to the country it can only come through education”.

He said his passion for education would see him collaborating with other individuals and the government to empower the youths to reduce restlessness.

February 5, 2025
How natural and planted ecosystems contribute to climate change mitigation — Ecologist

A Nigerian ecologist and researcher, Dr. Richard Ita, has emphasized the critical role of both natural and planted ecosystems in mitigating climate change by sequestering carbon and regulating local climates.

Speaking on the contribution of these ecosystems to addressing climate change, Dr. Ita highlighted the superior carbon storage capacity of natural ecosystems, particularly forests, due to their biodiversity. However, he noted that plantation ecosystems also hold significant, though often untapped, potential.

“My research underscores the need for integrated approaches to land-use management that include both the conservation of natural forests and the development of plantation forests to help buffer the impact of climate change,” Dr. Ita explained.

He stressed that in tropical regions like Nigeria, where deforestation remains a major concern, understanding the carbon storage potential of both types of ecosystems is crucial.

“Natural ecosystems, especially forests, have a higher carbon storage capacity because of their complexity and biodiversity. However, plantation ecosystems, such as orchards, also play a crucial role in carbon sequestration, albeit to a lesser extent,” Dr. Ita said.

Discussing the motivation behind his research on carbon stocks and biomass apportionments in Akwa Ibom State, he noted that the urgency to better understand the potential of both natural and plantation ecosystems was key.

“Akwa Ibom State, with its diverse ecosystems, provides a unique opportunity to explore how carbon is sequestered in different types of vegetation. This research not only contributes to global climate science but also offers practical insights for sustainable land management in the region,” Dr. Ita said.

He emphasized that conserving ecosystems is not just about protecting nature but also a crucial strategy for combating climate change. He encouraged policymakers and individuals alike to recognize the value of ecosystems and take proactive steps to protect and enhance them.

Dr. Ita further urged Nigerian policymakers to prioritize the restoration and conservation of natural ecosystems due to their high carbon sequestration potential.

“At the same time, urban planners should incorporate more green spaces, such as parks and community gardens, which also contribute to carbon storage,” he advised.

He added that policies incentivizing sustainable agricultural practices and protecting soil health would be essential in enhancing the carbon storage capacity of both natural and plantation ecosystems.

February 5, 2025