The National Universities Commission (NUC) has granted a landmark approval to the Federal College of Education (FCE), Yola, authorizing it to independently run full degree programs. This move transitions the institution from a decade-long affiliation model to operating under a “dual mandate,” a significant policy shift in Nigeria’s tertiary education landscape.
College Provost, Dr. Mohammed Dagereji, announced the development, positioning FCE Yola among a select group of 15 federal colleges of education nationwide that have been empowered by the Federal Government to award degrees autonomously.
From Affiliation to Autonomy: A Strategic Evolution
This approval marks a pivotal departure from the past. Since 2014, FCE Yola’s degree programs were conducted in affiliation with the University of Maiduguri, a common practice where colleges of education rely on established universities to validate and award degrees. The new “dual mandate” allows the college to concurrently run its traditional Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) programs and its own Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) degrees, creating a more integrated and self-reliant academic institution.
Scope and Immediate Impact
Out of 38 programs approved by the NUC, FCE Yola is launching with 14 degree programs for the inaugural 2026/2027 academic session. This phased approach allows the college to consolidate resources and ensure quality. Dr. Dagereji emphasized that admissions currently in progress will be the first cohort to receive degrees directly from FCE Yola, a historic milestone for the institution.
A Call for Systemic Harmonization
Beyond the announcement, the Provost advocated for a crucial policy reform: the harmonization of NCE and degree programs into one continuous academic pathway. This would allow students to progress seamlessly from the certificate level to a bachelor’s degree within the same institution, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and creating a more efficient teacher training pipeline.
Practical Information for Prospective Students
The college is now listed on the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) portal. Prospective candidates and those seeking transfers must apply exclusively through the dedicated portal: https://fceyoladegree.com.ng/portal/application. A critical advisory was issued: applications will only be considered for the 14 NUC-approved programs. Candidates wishing to change their course must do so at an accredited JAMB center before applying.
“Applications outside these listed programmes will not be considered at this stage,” Dr. Dagereji stated, underscoring the importance of adhering to the initial program rollout framework.
This autonomy is expected to enhance the college’s competitiveness, provide greater control over its academic curriculum, and potentially increase access to degree-level teacher education in Nigeria’s North-East region.
Edited by Sandra Umeh
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