The Nigerian government has announced plans to restructure the 115 Federal Unity Colleges (FUCs), converting them into basic and secondary schools. This initiative was disclosed by Yusuf Sununu, the Minister of State for Education, during the opening of the annual general meeting for principals of unity colleges in Abuja on Tuesday.
Sununu explained that the decision to restructure the unity colleges is in line with the provisions of the National Policy on Education (NPE). The restructuring process, according to him, is aimed at improving various aspects of the schools by attracting increased funding, enhancing the infrastructure, improving the welfare of teachers, and creating more job opportunities within the education sector.
He emphasized the government’s commitment to implementing the changes swiftly, noting that the Ministry of Education, with the support of relevant government agencies, would work to ensure that the restructuring is completed in the shortest possible time.“The ministry, with support from relevant agencies of government, will ensure it is achieved in the shortest possible time,” Sununu stated.
The minister also appealed to the principals of the unity schools, recognizing them as key stakeholders in the education sector, to collaborate with the government in improving the quality of education. He stressed the importance of their role in curbing social vices, fostering a culture of discipline within the schools, and working with local communities to ensure the security of the institutions.
The Federal Unity Schools initiative, which began in the mid-1960s, was originally established with the goal of promoting inter-regional education and reducing tribal divisions in the country. The first three unity schools were established in 1966, located in Okposi, Sokoto, and Warri.
This restructuring is seen as part of the government’s broader efforts to revitalize the education system, ensure better learning environments for students, and address the various challenges faced by the unity schools.
