By The National Commission for Colleges of Education has directed all Federal Colleges of Education operating the dual mandate programme to discontinue admissions into their four year degree programmes beginning from the 2026/2027 academic session.
The directive was contained in an official circular dated May 5, 2026, and signed by the Executive Secretary of the commission, Angela Ajala. The memo was addressed to provosts of Federal Colleges of Education across the country.
According to the commission, the decision follows new ministerial directives introducing a Continuous Five Year NCE Degree Programme. Under the new arrangement, students will first undergo a three year Nigeria Certificate in Education programme before proceeding to a two year degree programme as eligible NCE graduates.
“The transition from the existing 3 year NCE and 4 year degree structure to a 3 year NCE plus 2 year degree pathway is aimed at strengthening the Colleges of Education system,” the statement said.
The commission explained that the new structure is designed to reinforce the NCE as the minimum teaching qualification while also creating a smooth process for students seeking degree level certification within Colleges of Education.
It further stated that all institutions are expected to commence full implementation of the Continuous Five Year NCE Degree Programme from the 2026/2027 academic session, while detailed implementation guidelines on admission planning, academic programming and sensitization would be communicated later.
“Students already admitted into the degree programme prior to this directive shall be allowed to continue and complete their studies in line with the approved curriculum to which they were admitted,” the commission added.
The NCCE noted that the circular was issued to enable Colleges of Education begin early preparations ahead of the implementation date and urged affected institutions to ensure immediate compliance with the new directive.
