NSSEC to Set Minimum Standards for English and Mathematics Teachers

Dr. Iyela Ajayi, the Executive Secretary of the National Senior Secondary Education Commission (NSSEC), has announced plans to collaborate with other agencies, including the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), to establish minimum standards for teachers of English Language and Mathematics in secondary schools across Nigeria.

In a statement released in Abuja and conveyed by Fatima Bokpare, the Head of Public Relations at NSSEC, Dr. Iyela Ajayi discussed the commission's efforts to stimulate collaboration with stakeholders and evaluate the Zero Draft Minimum Standard. This initiative aims to set benchmarks for various aspects of Senior Secondary education in the country.

Dr. Ajayi also revealed that the NSSEC is actively working on the Senior Secondary School Database and the production of the Zero Draft National Policies. These initiatives are designed to strengthen Senior Secondary Education and align it with international and societal requirements.

Furthermore, Dr. Ajayi mentioned that the NSSEC has initiated the process of reskilling and retooling teachers of English Language and Mathematics to ensure they meet the minimum standards set by the commission in these subjects.

In his response, Prof. Paulinus Okwelle, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Colleges of Education, commended Dr. Ajayi's background as a former Provost of a College of Education, which positions him strategically for success in his current role. Prof. Okwelle emphasized the strong ties between the two commissions, highlighting that while NSSEC produces students, NCCE plays a pivotal role in training and grooming these students to become teachers.

Prof. Okwelle also called on the NSSEC to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to review and restructure the Senior Secondary Education Curriculum, emphasizing that a well-structured curriculum will be instrumental in repositioning Senior Secondary Education in Nigeria.