Rajya Sabha member Sudha Murty has emphasized the importance of continuous training and assessment for primary school teachers to ensure quality education. She suggested that teachers should undergo evaluations every three years to keep up with evolving teaching methods and technological advancements.
Murty pointed out that while the education system continues to evolve, its success ultimately depends on the competency and adaptability of teachers. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 proposes major reforms, but these will only be effective if teachers are adequately trained and regularly assessed.
Current Teacher Training Process in India
India’s teacher training system includes pre-service and in-service programs:
- Pre-service training: Degrees such as BEd (Bachelor of Education) and MEd (Master of Education) provide foundational qualifications.
- In-service training: Teachers participate in workshops and online courses, but these sessions are not followed by mandatory examinations.
Sudha Murty highlighted that without periodic assessments, teachers may not stay updated with modern teaching techniques, impacting student learning. “A teacher’s role is not just about qualifications but also about their ability to engage, adapt, and innovate in the classroom,” she said.
The Need for Periodic Examinations for Teachers
Murty proposed that teachers should appear for an examination every three years to assess their grasp of new teaching methodologies and technological advancements. She stressed that just like other professionals who update their skills, teachers should also undergo continuous learning and evaluation.
Currently, teachers must meet specific qualification criteria when applying for jobs:
- Pre-primary level: Requires NTT, DElEd, or Montessori training.
- Primary level: Needs DElEd or BElEd with TET certification.
- Secondary and senior secondary levels: Requires a BEd degree with CTET, TGT, or PGT certifications (for government schools).
However, once hired, teachers are not required to take further exams, which means there is no formal mechanism to check if they are staying updated with curriculum advancements. This is particularly concerning as the NEP 2020 is bringing rapid changes to the education sector.
Teacher Training in NEP 2020: The Way Forward
The NEP 2020 introduces significant changes to Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) to build foundational literacy for all children by 2025. The 5+3+3+4 structure covers children from ages 3 to 18 and aims to strengthen teacher training and assessment processes.
However, data reveals that one-third of elementary school teachers lack professional training, making the need for continuous evaluation even more urgent. The Union Budget recognizes the importance of teacher training, but there is no dedicated funding for periodic examinations to assess teachers’ progress.
Making Continuous Learning a Norm for Teachers
Sudha Murty’s call for regular teacher assessments is a step toward improving India’s education system. To implement this effectively, India must:
Introduce periodic certification exams to ensure teachers stay updated with evolving teaching methods.
Strengthen in-service training programs and link them to professional development assessments.
Incorporate technology-driven learning so that teachers can keep pace with digital advancements in education.
Conclusion
The quality of education is directly linked to the quality of teachers. While India has made progress in teacher training through programs like NISHTHA under NEP 2020, the lack of mandatory periodic evaluations poses a challenge.
By implementing regular teacher assessments, India can ensure that its educators remain well-equipped to guide future generations, ultimately strengthening the nation’s education system.
