Table of Contents
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has brought about a significant change in the landscape of teacher eligibility in India. With the new policy, the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) will become mandatory for teaching up to class 12th, a significant shift from its previous requirement up to class 8th in state and central government schools. Now, the National Council for Teacher Education has recommended CTET and other TETs to become mandatory certifications for Teaching aspirants aiming to teach classes 10 to 12.
CTET Mandatory Now for PGT Candidates as per NEP 2020
Under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET), which includes the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET), has been expanded to encompass the higher secondary levels from class 9th to 12th. The National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) now advocates for these changes in order to enhance the quality of education by ensuring that teachers are adequately prepared to teach at all levels, including the higher secondary stage. The NCTE presented this recommendation at the National Conference held on 12 February 2024, where various aspects of the CTET Exam for Post Graduate Teachers (PGT) were deliberated upon, including the examination process, eligibility standards, and other key considerations.
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.
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.