The Management of the Akwa Ibom State College of Education (AKSCOE), Afaha Nsit, has officially released the timetable for the upcoming Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) Mock Examination and the Professional Qualifying Examination Integrated (PQEI). These examinations are pivotal milestones for students and prospective educators, serving as the gateway to formal professional certification and legal recognition as teachers within the Nigerian educational system.
As teaching in Nigeria moves toward full professionalization, the TRCN certification has become a mandatory requirement for anyone seeking to practice in both public and private schools. By organizing these examinations, AKSCOE ensures that its graduates are not only academically sound but also professionally licensed to compete on a global scale.
Examination Timetable and Venue Logistics
The college has allocated two consecutive days for these exercises to ensure a smooth transition between the preparatory mock phase and the final integrated qualifying exam.
TRCN Mock Examination This preliminary exercise is designed to familiarize candidates with the Computer-Based Test (CBT) interface and the nature of professional education questions.
Date: Tuesday, 10th February, 2026
Time: 8:00 a.m. Prompt
Professional Qualifying Examination Integrated (PQEI) This is the formal certification exam that determines a candidate's eligibility for the TRCN license.
Date: Wednesday, 11th February, 2026
Time: 8:00 a.m. Prompt
Venue for Both Examinations Both the Mock and the PQEI will be held at the ICT Unit of the College. This facility is equipped with the necessary digital infrastructure to support the large-scale testing required for professional certification.
Candidate Instructions and Compliance
The College Management has emphasized the importance of punctuality and preparedness. Candidates are expected to be seated by 8:00 a.m. prompt on both days. Late arrival may lead to disqualification or exclusion from the testing session, as the CBT software is synchronized to start at a specific time across the unit.
Candidates are advised to bring all necessary examination materials, which typically include their Exam Permit/Slip, a valid Student or National Identity Card, and writing materials for rough work. The use of electronic gadgets such as mobile phones, smartwatches, or programmable calculators is strictly prohibited within the ICT Unit. Adherence to these guidelines is essential to maintain the integrity of the professional qualifying process.
The Significance of Professional Certification
The TRCN certification is the hallmark of a qualified teacher in Nigeria. It covers essential areas of pedagogy, including educational psychology, philosophy of education, curriculum development, and classroom management. For the students of AKSCOE, passing the PQEI is the final step in transitioning from a student-teacher to a recognized professional. This exercise reflects the college's unwavering commitment to enhancing educational standards and ensuring that the teachers it produces are capable of delivering high-quality instruction in any classroom environment.
Students are encouraged to utilize the days leading up to the examination for intensive revision, focusing on the TRCN modules and past questions. This proactive approach will ensure success in both the mock and the final integrated examination.