How BSc, HND, ND holders can apply for FG’s six-month teacher certification

Non-education graduates and individuals currently teaching without professional qualifications can apply to the Federal Government's Accelerated Teacher Professionalisation Pathway (ATPP) programme. This initiative aims to provide professional education qualifications and registration with the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) for those lacking formal pedagogical training. Applications for Cohort 1 are currently open until September 18, 2026.

Two qualification pathways are available: the Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) for holders of non-education bachelor's degrees or HNDs, and the Professional Diploma in Education (PDE) for holders of ND or OND qualifications. Both pathways run for six months, including coursework and supervised teaching practice.

Eligible applicants must have at least 24 months of classroom teaching experience. To apply, interested individuals must register on the ATPP portal, provide personal and educational information, and submit necessary documents such as a National Identification Number, academic certificate, and proof of teaching. The curriculum covers essential areas like professional knowledge, practice, values, ethics, and pedagogy, including digital learning and subject specialization.

Upon completion, candidates must pass the TRCN Professional Qualifying Examination and meet their institution's assessment requirements. Successful applicants will be eligible for registration at the appropriate TRCN category. The programme fee is ₦200,000 per teacher. Study centres for the ATPP include the National Teachers’ Institute, universities like Nnamdi Azikiwe University, University of Lagos, and others across Nigeria.