House of Representatives Approves Bill to Establish Federal College of Education in Kwara
Members of Nigeria’s House of Representatives have approved a bill to establish a Federal College of Education in Afon, Kwara State. The bill, introduced by Hon. Mukhtar Tolani Shagaya, the representative for Asa/Ilorin West Federal Constituency, passed the Second Reading on Tuesday, marking a significant step toward addressing educational disparities in the country.
The proposal, first read in the House on July 25, 2023, aims to create a federal institution dedicated to teacher training in Kwara, a state that currently lacks such a facility despite its strategic position and rich educational heritage. In his lead debate, Shagaya highlighted the disparity in the nation’s educational system, noting that Kwara is among the few states without a federal college focused on teacher education.
Shagaya emphasized that the establishment of the college would provide equitable access to teacher training, benefiting not only Kwara but also its neighboring states. He argued that such an institution would help reduce educational inequalities, improve teacher quality, and align with the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP)’s objectives of inclusive growth and human capital development.
The lawmaker expressed confidence in the local community’s readiness to host the new college, pointing out that residents of Afon have shown strong support for the project. Shagaya further stressed that the establishment of the college would not only address the shortage of qualified teachers but also contribute to enhancing the overall quality of education in Nigeria.
