At least 15,750 teachers across the country participated in the November 2023 professional qualifying examination, commencing on Thursday and concluding on Saturday.
The Teacher Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) administers the qualification examination to evaluate the professional competence of teachers. Dr. Jacinta Ezeahurukwe, the Director of Certification and Licensing at TRCN, informed reporters in Abuja on Saturday that the examination is essential to ensure the competence and licensing of teachers before they engage in teaching.
“The examination was conducted in batches, with some states hosting it on Thursday, others on Friday, and the final batch on Saturday,” Dr. Jacinta Ezeahurukwe disclosed. “In total, 15,750 teachers participated in the ‘Batch B’ examination nationwide. We have previously examined over 100,000 teachers, and our goal is to encompass all unregistered teachers.”
The Director emphasized the mandatory nature of the examination, explaining that it is a hallmark of the teaching profession where professional qualifications must be obtained. “One of the defining features of a profession is the requirement for practitioners to undergo a qualifying examination and obtain registration and licensing,” she stated. “The examination assesses professional competence as opposed to subject knowledge.”
Dr. Ezeahurukwe further elaborated that the qualifying examination establishes the fundamental knowledge that teachers must possess and demonstrate, as outlined in professional teaching standards. The results of the November examinations are set to be released in two weeks.
“The examination is computer-based, and measures have been implemented to prevent malpractice, such as randomizing questions to prevent duplication,” she added. “Each category of teachers has distinct sets of questions to suit their qualifications, ensuring the fair assessment of their competencies.”
In support of the examination’s potential to enhance the quality of teaching, Dr. Yusuf Saidi, Director of Reform Coordination and Service Improvement at the Federal Ministry of Education, called for increased support for TRCN to fulfill its mandate of licensing teachers to practice.
“We must ensure that only registered candidates sit for the examination to prevent proxy participation,” Dr. Saidi emphasized on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education, David Adejo, at an examination center.
Expressing confidence in the examination’s efficacy, some candidates highlighted its significance in eliminating unqualified teachers. Dr. Olu-Andrew Kayode, Secretary of the Nasarawa State chapter of the National Association of Private Schools, praised the examination, emphasizing its potential to elevate teaching standards.
“As an educationist, I find the examination straightforward and it dispels concerns surrounding computer-based tests. Basic computer literacy and the ability to read and write are adequate to pass,” Dr. Kayode remarked.
Luka Gabi, another candidate, commended TRCN for introducing computer-based tests and urged for further system upgrades. Meanwhile, Chioma Okpara, a private school proprietor who undertook the examination, encouraged uncertified teachers to participate, citing the inherent benefits of the process.
Overall, the professional qualifying examination signifies a pivotal step towards ensuring the competence and proficiency of teachers in Nigeria, ultimately enhancing the quality of education nationwide.
