Teachers play a crucial role in shaping not just the education but also the lives of their students. Their influence extends beyond imparting knowledge; they act as external parents, counselors, mentors, and role models. Teaching is often considered the noblest profession because it forms the foundation for all other careers. By molding young minds, teachers inspire confidence and a lifelong love for learning.
Historically, teaching was not the first career choice for many. People typically aspired to become doctors, engineers, or scientists, viewing teaching as a fallback option. However, this perception is changing.
In a conversation with Indian Masterminds, IRS officer and Member Secretary of the National Council for Teacher Education, Kesang Y Sherpa, shared, “In the past, people would choose teaching if they couldn’t get into another profession. It was seen as a backup. But now, with new education policies and courses, teaching is slowly becoming a preferred career choice.”
This shift is driven by several factors, including the recognition of the vital role teachers play in society and the introduction of innovative teaching methods and technologies. These changes are making the profession more attractive and rewarding. Additionally, the new education policies emphasize the need for highly skilled and passionate educators, further elevating the status of teaching as a career.
The Role of NCTE and the New Integrated Teacher Education Programme (ITEP)
The National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) is an official body of the Indian government that oversees standards, procedures, and processes in the Indian education system. It also coordinates and monitors teacher education across the country. After the New Education Policy was implemented, the NCTE introduced the Integrated Teacher Education Programme (ITEP). This four-year integrated B.Ed aims to create passionate, motivated, qualified, and professionally trained teachers who can design and implement effective learning experiences for students at all stages of school education.
The ITEP ensures that future teachers receive top-quality education in content, teaching methods, values, and practice. Recognizing the need for teachers to be trained in high-quality content and teaching methods, this course focuses on 21st-century skills. The program prepares teachers for the Foundational, Preparatory, Middle, and Secondary stages, tailored to students’ needs.
“Students are paramount, and we need more experimental learning to help them keep up with the latest trends and technology. If teachers are good, students will also be good. The ITEP is a major step to achieve that,” said an officer.
Ms. Sherpa also highlighted that students in the ITEP can enter and exit the course at multiple points, making it more flexible and attractive. The entire process is online, ensuring transparency. A national common entrance exam is conducted for admission to the ITEP, so only the best candidates are selected. After completing the course, they must pass the CTET exams, which further ensure only the best teachers enter the profession.
“If we want to revolutionize the education system, teachers need to be passionate. The ITEP is a step forward in that direction,” added Ms. Sherpa.
ATTENTION TO FOUNDATIONAL LEARNING
The new educational framework categorizes school education into four stages: Foundational, Preparatory, Middle, and Secondary. Previously, more emphasis was placed on teachers of higher classes, often overlooking the importance of primary school educators. The new National Education Policy (NEP) shifts this focus, highlighting the critical nature of foundational learning. Ms. Sherpa explains that teaching methods for foundational and primary levels differ significantly from those for senior classes. Educators must move away from traditional chalk-and-board techniques and engage students through activities that enhance learning.
In response, the new courses require aspiring teachers to choose their specialization early, allowing for targeted training that meets the specific needs of students. As a result, teachers are better equipped to foster a stimulating and supportive learning environment from the start of a child’s educational journey.
“As the demand for dedicated and well-trained teachers continues to grow, their ability to shape the next generation and influence the future becomes ever more critical. The evolving educational landscape positions teachers as key players in building a brighter, more educated society. By embracing new methods and focusing on foundational learning, educators are paving the way for a future where every child can thrive”, Ms. Sherpa concluded
