Sa’adatu Rimi Federal College of Education (SRFCE), Kano, has made history by becoming the first College of Education in Nigeria to host an international virtual certificate training programme facilitated directly by a renowned global educator, marking a significant milestone in the country’s teacher education system.

The groundbreaking programme was delivered by Dr. Donna Stallings, former Professor of Lincoln University, Jefferson City, Missouri, United States of America, and is being hailed as a major step towards internationalising teacher education through technology-driven learning.

The initiative represents the first time an international virtual certificate training has been conducted directly for a Nigerian College of Education, opening new opportunities for students and lecturers to access global educational expertise without the financial burden and logistical challenges associated with overseas travel.

Organisers said the programme demonstrates how digital technology is transforming education by breaking down geographical barriers and connecting Nigerian institutions to global best practices in teaching, learning and professional development.

They noted that the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly in the areas of digitisation, innovation, human capital development and international educational partnerships.

The programme was developed and facilitated through the Electronic Education Initiative (E-DON), a platform aimed at expanding access to quality education through digital learning and international collaboration.

Stakeholders commended the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), under the leadership of its Executive Secretary, Dr. Angela Ajala, the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), led by Arc. Sonny Echono, and the Committee of Provosts of Nigerian Colleges of Education for their continued support towards transforming teacher education across the country.

Special recognition was also given to the Provost of Sa’adatu Rimi Federal College of Education, Kano, Dr. Kabiru Gwarzo, whose leadership and commitment to innovation were credited with positioning the institution at the forefront of educational transformation in Nigeria.

According to the organisers, the virtual certificate training offers several benefits, including enhanced access to international expertise, improved digital literacy, exposure to global educational best practices, strengthened technology-driven teaching methodologies and expanded professional development opportunities for academic staff.

They added that the programme provides a scalable model that can be replicated across Colleges of Education nationwide, helping to advance Nigeria’s vision of building a modern, globally connected and technology-driven education sector.

Participants were encouraged to view the programme as more than just a training exercise, but as a historic achievement capable of reshaping the future of teacher education in Nigeria.

Founder and National Programme Coordinator of E-DON, Dr. Idonuagbe Akogun, expressed appreciation to all stakeholders and participants for supporting the initiative, describing the programme as the beginning of a new era of innovation, collaboration and global engagement within Nigeria’s tertiary education system.

With the successful hosting of the programme, SRFCE Kano has set a precedent for other Colleges of Education across the country, reinforcing the role of technology and international partnerships in improving educational quality and preparing future teachers for the demands of a rapidly evolving world.