The bill seeking to establish the Federal College of Education, Umuobom, Imo State, has passed second reading in the House of Representatives.
The bill, sponsored by the member representing Ideato North/South Federal Constituency, Ikenga Ugochinyere, seeks to upgrade the Imo State College of Education, Umuobom, to a federal institution.
The proposed legislation scaled second reading at plenary on Thursday, a major milestone in efforts to expand access to quality teacher education and boost educational development in Imo State.
The bill, titled: “A Bill for an Act to Establish Federal College of Education, Umuobom, Imo State, and for Related Matters,” provides legal framework for the institution’s establishment, administration, academic programmes, infrastructure, research and staffing.
Under the proposed law, the college would operate as a corporate body with powers to acquire and manage properties, while its academic programmes and standards would be supervised by the Federal Ministry of Education through the National Commission for Colleges of Education.
Leading debate on its general principles, Ugochinyere said the bill seeks to strengthen capacity for learning, improve teacher training and advance the education sector through academic and research programmes.
He said the initiative underscores his commitment to educational development and attracting federal institutions to his constituency, with potential to create jobs, stimulate economic activities and expand access to higher education for youths in Ideato and neighbouring communities.
According to him, the upgrade will enhance the institution’s capacity to produce qualified teachers to improve educational standards in Imo and Nigeria at large.
The passage at second reading paves way for further legislative processes, including committee consideration.
When put to voice vote by the Speaker who presided over the session, the bill was passed and referred to the relevant committee for further legislative action.
