In an ambitious move to tackle the critical shortage of teachers in Nigeria, the Federal Government has announced plans to recruit 74,000 teachers across the country by the end of 2024. This initiative aims to employ 2,000 teachers per state annually, covering all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
The Ministry of Education disclosed that the deadline for implementing this policy is set for December 2024. This announcement was made in a recently obtained roadmap of the ministry, highlighting the government’s commitment to improving the education sector.
The decision comes in the wake of a report by Sunday PUNCH, which revealed that 18 states have failed to recruit teachers over the past five years, exacerbating the shortage crisis. The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has also expressed concerns about the dwindling number of teachers in public schools, emphasizing the urgent need for intervention.
According to the Ministry of Education’s roadmap, each state is expected to recruit a minimum of 2,000 qualified and certified teachers annually. The policy highlights the necessity for these teachers to be certified by the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) to ensure quality education.
To facilitate this initiative, the Minister of State for Education will engage with state governors to secure their commitment and cooperation. This collaborative approach is key to the successful implementation of the policy and to addressing the teacher shortage effectively.
The December 2024 deadline marks the completion of the first phase of this recruitment drive, signaling a significant step towards enhancing the educational landscape in Nigeria. By increasing the number of qualified teachers, the government aims to improve student outcomes and ensure a brighter future for the nation’s youth.
