The Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) has expressed strong opposition to the Federal Government’s decision to exempt National Certificate in Education (NCE) candidates from sitting the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). The union warned that the move could compromise the quality of teacher training and weaken education standards.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, NUT National President, Mr. Titus Amba, said colleges of education must attract the most qualified students to ensure excellence in teaching and learning outcomes.
“Education, especially at primary and secondary levels, is the bedrock of every profession. If we fail at that foundation, we fail at every other level of education in the country,” Amba stressed.
Amba argued that removing the UTME as a testing requirement eliminates a crucial assessment point for prospective teachers. He noted that waiving key academic evaluations could undermine efforts to elevate standards in teacher training institutions.
The NUT president also emphasized that rather than granting examination waivers, the government should focus on improving teacher welfare and incentives to attract high-caliber candidates. He cited countries like Sweden and Finland, where strong investment in teacher pay and working conditions has strengthened education systems.
“Improving working conditions and providing proper incentives for teachers is the surest way to attract quality candidates into the teaching profession,” he said.
Amba criticized the Federal Government for policy inconsistencies and unfulfilled promises, including the special salary structures proposed in 2020 under former President Muhammadu Buhari. He urged the government to prioritize practical reforms that support teachers and enhance the quality of education nationwide.
