Successful Conduct of the November Diet of the Teachers’ Professional Qualifying Examination Amid Financial Challenges.

The Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) recently oversaw the November Diet of the Teachers’ Professional Qualifying Examination (PQE), which saw an impressive enrollment of 16,614 candidates nationwide. The examination, conducted in Abuja and major city centers, was reported to be hitch-free, with officials from the Federal Ministry of Education closely monitoring the process.

However, while the examination proceeded smoothly, the TRCN, now led by Acting Registrar/Chief Executive Officer Dr. Stella-Maria Nwokeocha, is grappling with significant financial challenges. The agency has been delisted from direct federal government funding, resulting in operational cutbacks and increased reliance on development partners for sustenance. Dr. Nwokeocha highlighted the difficulties faced in training staff and meeting their emoluments, stating, “We met so many challenges but we try to cut down on cost… staff of the agency… have been very understanding.”

The TRCN is advocating for improved funding from the government, emphasizing the need for support in staff salary payments and operational expenses.

In addition to addressing financial constraints, the TRCN has introduced technological innovations to enhance the examination process. Dr. Jacinta Ezeahurukwe, Director of Certification and Licensing, noted that the PQE is crucial for assessing the professional knowledge of aspiring teachers, serving as a prerequisite for licensure. Recent advancements include the implementation of an app that generates examination numbers and detects impersonation, ensuring that only registered candidates participate in the examination.

As the TRCN continues to evolve, the commitment to improving the examination process remains steadfast, with plans for online registration and further enhancements in the pipeline. The agency’s efforts reflect a dedication to maintaining the integrity of the teaching profession in Nigeria, despite the challenges it currently faces.