Synopsis
The Odisha Higher Education department is set to introduce the Integrated Teacher Education Program (ITEP) in eight B.Ed. colleges, allowing students to complete their degree in four years after Class 12, in line with NEP 2020.Key Takeaways
- ITEP to be implemented in eight B.Ed. colleges.
- Students can complete their B.Ed. in four years after Class 12.
- Aligned with NEP 2020 for strengthening education.
- Rs 168 crore allocated for enhancing college infrastructure.
- MoUs signed with Government Degree colleges for collaboration.
Bhubaneswar, March 13 (NationPress) The Odisha Higher Education department is preparing to roll out the Integrated Teacher Education Program (ITEP) across eight teacher training institutions (B.Ed. colleges) within the state. On Thursday, these training institutes formalized their commitment by signing Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with nearby Government Degree colleges for the future implementation of ITEP.
According to a statement from the Higher Education department, the ITEP will be introduced in alignment with the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) regulations in the near future.
The department is optimistic that this initiative will promote a multidisciplinary approach among teacher training institutes.
“With the introduction of ITEP, students can achieve their B.Ed. degree through a comprehensive four-year program after completing Class 12. In the past, aspirants needed to finish a three-year undergraduate degree followed by a two-year B.Ed. course, totaling five years. The new ITEP allows direct enrollment into this integrated program, enabling course completion in just four years. This initiative is in harmony with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and is designed to fortify the education framework within the state,” stated the department.
Moreover, the Higher Education Department has allocated Rs 168 crore for enhancing the infrastructure of 189 private degree colleges throughout the state. This funding will facilitate the construction of additional classrooms, laboratories, canteens, libraries, common rooms, multipurpose halls, and both administrative and academic buildings.
During the announcement, Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj remarked, “Our objective is to bolster the foundation and infrastructure of colleges while delivering quality education to students. The ITEP will enable students to finish their B.Ed. course within four years post-Class 12.
Furthermore, the allocation of Rs 168 crore will play a crucial role in the comprehensive development of private colleges, ensuring quality education for all students.”