‘We Are Not Inconsequential’ – NUT Faults FG For Stopping TRCN Funds
The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has urged the federal government to reconsider the halt in funding for the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN).
Speaking at the public presentation of the Professional Standards for School Leadership in Abuja on Thursday, NUT National President Audu Amba described the decision as detrimental to the development of the teaching profession in Nigeria.
Amba, who noted that the TRCN is only a regulatory body that professionalize teaching in primary, secondary, and university levels, wondered why the government would deem it fit to withdraw its funding.
“We woke up overnight to the news that the federal government has decided to stop funding TRCN. I have never seen anywhere in the world where a regulatory body for the teaching profession is not funded. Do we really mean business when doing this?,” he queried.
Amba criticized the government for prioritizing other sectors while neglecting the teaching profession, which he described as the backbone of national development.
“Are we saying that teachers are inconsequential? We, as leaders of teachers, will not allow this to go unchallenged. We will agitate and ensure the government funds TRCN because we have come a long way as a leading country in Africa; we cannot afford to regress,” he declared.
Speaking at the event, Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman pledged that the Federal Government is committed towards implementing teachers’ schemes as a way of improving the quality of education in the country.
Mamman acknowledged the roles of teachers in developing the value system at the heart of learners, hence the need to support their crucial roles.
He pledged the commitment of the federal government to providing necessary resources, training, and support to help them succeed in their profession.
The minister maintained that the professional standards would serve as a comprehensive framework designed to support and enhance the effectiveness of school leadership.
He said the standards were not merely guidelines, but a vision of what exemplary leadership should be by providing a clear pathway for professional growth and institutional success.
“To our school leaders, we want to say this, our work is at the heart of our educational mission. You have the power to inspire, to innovate, and to make a lasting difference in the lives of countless students.
“These standards are here to guide, support and challenge you to reach new heights. Embrace them with the passion and dedication that defines your leadership.
“Let us all commit to upholding these standards, not as a set of rules, but as a shared vision of excellence.
“Together, we can build an education system that not only meets the needs of today but anticipates and prepares for the challenges of tomorrow.
On his part, TRCN Registrar and Chief Executive Prof. Josiah Ajiboye highlighted the significance of the Professional Standards for School Leadership, which were reviewed to address the evolving instructional roles of school leaders.
“The review was undertaken to provide a comprehensive guiding framework that addresses contemporary challenges and opportunities within the education system.” Ajiboye explained.
