Bill to establish Federal College of Education in Igbekebo, Ondo State passes second reading

The Senate on Thursday passed for second reading a bill seeking for the establishment of Federal College of Education in Igbekebo, Ondo State.

This followed the presentation of the lead debate on the bill’s general principles by its sponsor, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim (APC, Ondo South), during plenary.

In his presentation, Ibrahim noted that the bill was first read on Thursday, October 12.

He emphasised that a sound and robust educational system in any country relies on the availability of qualified and well-trained teachers to impart the necessary knowledge to students.

“Thus, the need to establish a strong system in our educational sector that consistently produces well-qualified and trained teachers, as seen in other developed countries, cannot be overemphasised,” Ibrahim stated.

He further highlighted that the recognition of colleges of education as tools for national development had spurred significant expansion of such institutions across Nigeria.

According to him, the objective of the proposed college is to promote learning for all individuals without discrimination based on race, creed, gender or political affiliation.

“The college will develop and offer academic and professional programs leading to the award of certificates, first degrees, and postgraduate research opportunities,” Ibrahim added.

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, subsequently referred the bill to the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund for further legislative review.

The committee is expected to report back within six weeks.