Teacher education in Nigeria: trends in policy, reforms and challenges from 1960 - 2019
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Date
2025-07-15
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Faculty of Education, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State
Abstract
This study examined the historical trajectory of teacher education in Nigeria focusing on the trends in policy, reforms and the persistent challenges from 1960-2019. Drawing upon key educational reforms and government initiatives, the finding revealed a progressive yet uneven development of teacher education. Significant milestones include the post-independence expansion of teacher training colleges, the implementation of Asby commission recommendations, the establishment of colleges of education and National Teachers’ Institute (NTI), and introduction of the Universal Basic Education (UBE) programme and the 6-3-3-4 educational system. These policies reflect the government’s commitment to enhancing teacher quality and educational access. However, the sector continue to face critical challenges such as inadequate funding shortage of qualified educators, outdated curricula, poor infrastructure, poor teacher morale, and systemic corruption. Additionally, the declining appeal of teaching profession and limited integration of information and communication technology (ICT) further hinder its progress. The study concludes that while considerable effort have been made to reform teacher education, a strategic, well founded and sustained implementation framework is essential to achieve a robust future ready teacher education system in Nigeria.
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Keywords
Teacher, Reform, SOCIAL SCIENCES::Social sciences::Education, Challenges