The Nigeria Union of Teachers in Anambra State has rejected the Federal Government’s new policy waiving UTME requirements for admission into Colleges of Education, warning that lowering entry standards will weaken the teaching profession and damage Nigeria’s education system.
Addressing journalists in Awka on Saturday, NUT State Chairman Chika Chukwudozie said the union was alarmed by the announcement from the Federal Ministry of Education. Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa had said education and some agricultural courses would be exempted from JAMB screening to boost enrolment, which is reportedly low.
Chukwudozie argued that the logic behind the policy is flawed and short-sighted. “Teaching is a profession with the same status as medicine, law, or engineering. The standard of admission into Colleges of Education should not be cheapened just to attract candidates,” she stated.
The NUT boss emphasized that education is the foundation for all other professions, since teachers shape the minds, values, and competence of future doctors, engineers, and leaders. “Why then should it be made an all-comers affair?” she asked, describing the waiver as dangerous and counterproductive.
Instead of diluting entry requirements, the union said the government should address the real reasons young people avoid teaching. Chukwudozie listed improving teacher salaries, ensuring safe school environments, creating clear career paths, providing infrastructure, and offering scholarships and housing support as proactive steps.
“When teachers are well paid, respected, and given growth opportunities, candidates will naturally scramble to join Colleges of Education,” she added. The union also called for better enforcement of professional regulations and more accessible loans and transport support for teachers.
NUT concluded by urging the Federal Government to suspend the policy and engage stakeholders for broader consultations. “If a policy is properly formulated, there will be no need to defend it. The future of this country is too important to be sacrificed for administrative convenience,” Chukwudozie warned.