The National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) has acknowledged receiving ‘Ministerial Directives’ regarding the Dual Mandate and the ongoing Five (5)-Year NCE Degree Program in Colleges of Education.
These directives outline a shift from the current 3-year NCE and 4-year degree models to a streamlined 3-year NCE followed by a 2-year degree option.
Issued on May 5, 2026, the instructions require all Colleges of Education running the Dual Mandate 4-year degree program to halt new admissions and fully adopt the updated structure starting in the 2026/2027 academic year.
Under this revised framework, students completing the 3-year Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) can advance straight into a 2-year degree program at the 300 level within the same institution, simplifying and accelerating the process.
The policy seeks to bolster the NCE as the essential qualification for teaching while enabling a fluid progression to a bachelor’s degree right in Colleges of Education.
Stakeholders have welcomed the change, praising the Federal Government and NCCE for this strategic move that positions Colleges of Education graduates on equal footing with university peers.
