FG scraps UTME requirement for NCE candidates
By Uji A Iliyasu, Abuja
The Federal Government has exempted candidates seeking admission into Colleges of Education from writing the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), as part of efforts to expand access to teacher education and address declining enrolment in the sector.
Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, who announced the policy in Abuja, on Monday, stated that candidates with a minimum of four credit passes in relevant subjects would now be eligible for admission into the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) programme without sitting for the UTME. The minister said the policy will take effect from next year.
He explained, however, that eligible candidates must still register with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), while their credentials would be screened, verified and processed through the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS) before admission letters are issued.
Alausa said available data from JAMB indicated that Colleges of Education across the country still possess substantial admission capacity, especially for candidates within their host communities.
“Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, there is compelling evidence, including empirical data from JAMB, that Colleges of Education possess significant capacity to admit willing candidates, particularly from their immediate localities,” he said.
He attributed the development to factors such as affordability, proximity, cultural alignment and increasing community demand for teacher education.
He pointed out that maximising the untapped capacity of the institutions is critical to widening access to tertiary education, tackling the challenge of out-of-school adolescents and promoting positive attitudes towards the teaching profession.
“In recognition of this reality, the Federal Ministry of Education, in consultation with relevant stakeholders, has taken a deliberate policy position.
“Accordingly, candidates seeking admission into the NCE programme, who possess a minimum of four credit passes, will no longer be required to sit for the UTME,” the minister stated.
He further disclosed that the Federal Government had extended similar exemptions to candidates seeking admission into National Diploma programmes in non-technology agricultural and agriculture-related courses.
Alausa said the policy was designed to strike a balance between expanding access to education and preserving the integrity of the nation’s admission process.
“It will not only ease the pressure associated with UTME but also encourage greater participation in teacher education and agricultural programmes, both of which are critical to national development,” he added.
The minister also commended JAMB for promoting inclusive participation for Persons Living With Disabilities (PWLDs), particularly through the waiver of application fees and other targeted interventions.
He described the initiative as a strong demonstration of the government’s commitment to equity and equal opportunity.
“The increasing participation of candidates with disabilities in our examinations and admission processes is a clear evidence that when barriers are removed, potential is unleashed,” Alausa said.
He assured that the Federal Government would continue to strengthen support systems, improve accessibility and encourage institutions to create inclusive learning environments that guarantee dignity, support and equal opportunities for all learners, regardless of physical or social limitations.