The Federal College of Education, Okene is one of Nigeria’s foremost institutions for the training of teachers at the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) level. Established to address the nation’s growing need for well-trained teachers, FCE Okene has over the years played a pivotal role in shaping educational policies and practices, particularly in the North-Central region of Nigeria.
Situated in Okene, Kogi State, the college is strategically located to serve students from all geopolitical zones of Nigeria, particularly the North and the Middle Belt. The institution is supervised by the Federal Ministry of Education and affiliated with prominent Nigerian universities for its degree programmes.
Historical Background
The Federal College of Education, Okene was founded in 1974 as the Federal Advanced Teachers’ College. It was later upgraded to a full-fledged College of Education in 1985, and since then, it has made significant strides in producing qualified NCE holders.
Initially established to cater to teacher shortages in Northern Nigeria, FCE Okene has grown to become a national institution, drawing students from across the federation.
Mission and Vision
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Mission:
To produce highly qualified, competent, and morally sound teachers for the Nigerian education system. -
Vision:
To become a world-class College of Education that produces teachers equipped with 21st-century teaching skills.
Academic Programmes
A. Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE)
The NCE is the principal programme offered by the college. The duration is three years, and it is organized into six semesters. Programmes are available in the following schools:
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School of Arts and Social Sciences
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School of Sciences
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School of Languages
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School of Vocational and Technical Education
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School of Early Childhood Care and Primary Education
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School of Adult and Non-Formal Education
Popular NCE combinations include:
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Political Science / Social Studies
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Biology / Chemistry
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English / Hausa
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Economics / Mathematics
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Agricultural Science / Home Economics
B. Degree Programmes (in Affiliation with University of Ibadan)
The college offers Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) degrees in affiliation with the University of Ibadan. The duration is four years for UTME candidates and three years for Direct Entry candidates.
Available B.Ed degree courses include:
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Education/English
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Education/Biology
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Education/Economics
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Education/Mathematics
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Education/Guidance and Counselling
Admission Requirements
A. NCE Admission (via UTME or Direct Entry)
Requirements:
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Minimum of 5 O’Level credits including English and Mathematics.
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A good score in the UTME, usually 100 and above.
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Choice of FCE Okene as either first or second choice in JAMB.
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Participation in the post-UTME screening exercise.
B. B.Ed Admission (Affiliated Degree)
For UTME Candidates:
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Minimum of 5 O’Level credits including English Language and Mathematics.
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Score at least the minimum UTME cut-off mark (usually 180+).
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FCE Okene must be chosen under University of Ibadan affiliation.
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Attend the post-UTME or screening exercise.
For Direct Entry Candidates:
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Must hold an NCE, Diploma, or A-Level certificate with good grades.
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Must meet the specific departmental subject combination requirements.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply
Step 1: JAMB Registration
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Visit a JAMB-accredited CBT center.
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Choose FCE Okene or University of Ibadan (FCE Okene campus) as your institution of choice.
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Write and pass the UTME exam.
Step 2: Post-UTME Screening
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Visit the FCE Okene official website: www.fceokene.edu.ng
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Check announcements and apply for post-UTME online.
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Pay the screening fee (usually ₦2,000).
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Upload your credentials: UTME result, O’Level results, passport photo, etc.
Step 3: Admission List
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Monitor the portal for the admission list or use the JAMB CAPS portal to check status.
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If admitted, accept admission on JAMB CAPS.
Step 4: School Registration
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Print the admission letter.
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Proceed to the college for screening and clearance.
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Pay school fees through the official payment platform.
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Obtain your matriculation number and proceed with course registration.
Facilities and Student Life
FCE Okene provides a variety of facilities to support academic excellence and personal development:
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Well-equipped science laboratories
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Modern ICT centres
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Spacious lecture halls and libraries
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Functional hostels for both male and female students
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Active Students’ Union Government (SUG)
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On-campus medical clinic
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Recreational and sports facilities
Challenges and Prospects
Like many institutions in Nigeria, FCE Okene faces challenges including:
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Funding constraints
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Infrastructural deficits
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Inconsistent academic calendars due to industrial actions
However, the institution remains resilient and committed to producing quality educators. Recent efforts in digitizing administrative processes, improving faculty quality, and expanding academic offerings reflect its commitment to progress.
Career Opportunities for Graduates
Graduates of FCE Okene are employed as:
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Primary and Secondary School Teachers
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Educational Administrators
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Curriculum Developers
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Private Tutors
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Non-profit Education Workers
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Government Education Officers
With further qualifications, they may pursue careers in university lecturing, research, and policy development.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is Federal College of Education, Okene a university?
No, it is a College of Education, though it offers degree programmes in affiliation with the University of Ibadan.
Q2: What is the cut-off mark for FCE Okene?
The minimum UTME cut-off mark is usually 100 for NCE programmes and 180 for degree programmes.
Q3: Does FCE Okene have hostel accommodation?
Yes, there are hostel facilities available for both male and female students.
Q4: Can I change my institution to FCE Okene after UTME?
Yes. You can do a change of institution on the JAMB portal if the college is still accepting applications.
Q5: What is the school fees structure?
Fees vary depending on the programme (NCE or Degree), but typically range between ₦40,000 – ₦70,000 per session.
Q6: Is there part-time study at FCE Okene?
Yes, FCE Okene offers part-time NCE and degree programmes, usually conducted during weekends.
Q7: Can I apply for postgraduate programmes?
FCE Okene does not offer postgraduate programmes directly. However, graduates can pursue postgraduate diplomas and master’s degrees in affiliated universities.
Q8: Is the degree certificate from FCE Okene valid for NYSC?
Yes. Degree certificates issued under the University of Ibadan are valid and acceptable for NYSC mobilization.
