Is CTET Mandatory Now for PGT Candidates? Check Latest Updates

With the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, a major shift is underway in how teachers are certified for school-level education in India. Earlier, the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET)- including CTET- was only mandatory for teaching up to Class 8. But now, the scope has widened significantly.

As per the latest developments, TET will become compulsory for teaching all classes from pre-primary to Class 12. This marks a crucial transformation in teacher recruitment norms for both state and central government schools, especially those affiliated with the CBSE, such as Kendriya Vidyalayas and Navodaya Vidyalayas. The National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) has recommended that CTET and other state-level TETs become mandatory for candidates aspiring to teach Classes 9 to 12- a category previously not covered under CTET.

CTET Mandatory Now for PGT Candidates as per NEP 2020

Under NEP 2020, the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) has now been extended to include Post Graduate Teachers (PGTs) teaching Classes 9 to 12. This is part of a broader effort by the NCTE to elevate the standards of teacher training and eligibility across all school levels.

The move is aligned with the idea that teachers at every level, including higher secondary, should go through a common national-level eligibility assessment. During the National Conference held on 12 February 2024, the proposal was formally presented, and discussions were held regarding the structure, content, and implementation of CTET Exam for senior secondary classes. Now, CBSE and NCTE are finalising guidelines for conducting CTET at four distinct levels, with a specific paper likely to be introduced for PGT aspirants.

CTET Mandatory for PGT Candidates as per NEP 2020

New School Education Structure Announced under NEP 2020

The NEP 2020 also introduces a new school education structure that comprises four stages: Foundational, Preparatory, Middle, and Secondary (5+3+3+4). This structural reform aims to provide a more holistic and integrated approach to education. With the expansion of the teacher eligibility test, the NEP 2020 seeks to ensure that the quality of education is maintained across all levels, ultimately benefiting students up to class 12th. However, CBSE is yet to confirm the changes in this format.

• Foundational (Balvatika to Class 2)
• Preparatory (Classes 3 to 5)
• Middle (Classes 6 to 8)
• Secondary (Classes 9 to 12)

However, CBSE is yet to confirm the changes in this format. As of now, the speculation is that exams will be designed around the current structure.

• Foundational (Balvatika)
• Preparatory (Classes 1 to 5)
• Middle (Classes 6 to 8)
• Secondary (Classes 9 to 12)

Conclusion

The inclusion of TET for higher secondary levels and the lifetime validity provision for the test are significant reforms under NEP 2020. By aligning teacher eligibility requirements with the new education structure, the policy aims to raise the standard of education and ensure that students receive quality education up to class 12th.

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