In a landmark move for tertiary education, the Kaduna State House of Assembly has passed a bill granting the State College of Education full autonomy to award degrees independently.
The legislation, championed by Mahmud Ismaila, member representing Zaria City constituency, and Chairman of the Assembly Committee on Education, fundamentally restructures the institution’s mandate and operations.
The core reform establishes a dual mandate, allowing the college to concurrently run its traditional National Certificate in Education (NCE) programs and degree programs including postgraduate degrees without requiring affiliation with external universities.
This change ends the previous dependency on institutions like Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) for higher-degree accreditation.
“This law is vital for our only remaining College of Education in Kaduna State,” Honourable Ismaila stated.
According to him, other federal colleges in the state have already transitioned into universities. “It positions our institution for growth and improved educational quality.”
Key provisions of the new law include significant administrative reforms. Leadership Tenure: The Provost’s term has been standardized to a single five-year term, replacing the previous structure of two four-year terms.
According to Ismaila,.”This aligns with national policy for heads of tertiary institutions and extends to other top management, including the Librarian, Registrar, and Bursar.
Multi-Campus Expansion: The college is now legally empowered to establish and operate additional campuses across Kaduna State. A new office of Deputy Provost in charge of Campuses has been created to oversee this expansion.
Staff Retirement Policy: The bill formally codifies the retirement age of 65 years or 40 years of service for teaching staff, bringing clarity and consistency to employment terms.”
Ismaila confirmed that Governor Uba Sani is fully aware of and supports the legislation.
“The Governor recognizes the importance of this law for improving the college and is seriously ready for its full implementation,” he assured.
The law is expected to enhance the college’s academic stature, increase access to degree programs within the state, and streamline its administrative governance.