Teachers' Immigration Policy: NUC Reacts, Says UK Seeking Cheap Labour

The Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) has reacted to UK's teacher's immigration policy set to take effect in February 2023.

According to the union, the move by the UK was made to get quality teaching at a cheaper price. 

The Department for Education on the UK government's website announced last week that come 2023, teachers from African countries, including Nigeria would be permitted to apply for qualified teacher status through its Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA), the equivalent of Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN).

Reacting to the move, the NUT Chairman, Lagos State, Akintoye Hassan commended Nigerian teachers on their recognition by the UK. 

He, however, stated that the development was UK's decision to "minimize cost and get cheap labour", maintaining that "the situation portends danger for Nigeria."

Hassan said: “Yes, the truth is that Nigerian teachers are good and great and they deserve commendation for performing under conditions that are not conducive.

“It is not that Nigerians are not good, the atmosphere is simply hostile. The British Government recognises this and has listed our country among those whose services are needed in that sector.

“Unfortunately, what value do we place on teachers here? I see what the UK government wants to do as a business decision.

“As far as I am concerned, they just want to minimize cost and get cheap labour.

“Few days ago, nurses in that country went on strike because of poor remuneration. When they get new intakes for the job, they will start them at lower levels and pay them less.

“For those coming from Nigeria for instance, the situation will still be seen as better than what obtains here.

“We must note that the situation portends danger for Nigeria. The reason is that when countries such as Britain balance up regarding workforce, they will shut their doors.

“It is not that our own people are not good, are they appreciated and recognised?”