By Felix Khanoba
The Federal Government says candidates seeking admission into colleges of education will no longer need to sit for Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, made this known during the 2026 admission policy meeting organised by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) on Monday in Abuja.
While saying candidates with four credit passes in relevant subjects are allowed to apply to the colleges of education for direct admission, the minister noted that such students must register with JAMB with their credentials screened and verified .
According to Alausa, there is compelling evidence, including empirical data from the JAMB, that Colleges of Education possess significant capacity to admit willing candidates, particularly from their immediate localities.
“Harnessing this latent capacity is critical, not only for expanding access but also for addressing the persistent challenge of out-of-school adolescents and fostering, from an early stage, a positive orientation towards the teaching profession.
“In recognition of this reality, the Federal Ministry of Education, in consultation with relevant stakeholders, has taken a deliberate policy position.
“Accordingly, candidates seeking admission into the NCE programme, who possess a minimum of four (4) credit passes, will no longer be required to sit for the UTME.
“However, it is imperative to emphasise that such candidates shall mandatorily register with JAMB, and their credentials shall be duly screened, verified, and certified for the issuance of admission letters through CAPS (Central Admission Processing System), in accordance with extant regulations,” the minister said, adding that new policy will take effect from next year.
Speaking further, Alausa said the Federal Government has also extended exemptions to candidates seeking admission into National Diploma programmes in non-technology agricultural and agriculture-related courses.
He said the new approach strikes a necessary balance between widening access and preserving the integrity of our admission system.
“It will not only ease the pressure associated with UTME but also encourage greater participation in teacher education and agricultural programmes, both of which are critical to national development,” the minister said.
He commended JAMB for its deliberate efforts in promoting inclusive participation for Persons Living with Disabilities (PWLDs) through the waiver of application fees and other targeted interventions.
