Gujarat: Candidates of TET-TAT Rally in Gandhinagar for Swift Recruitment

Synopsis
On February 24, candidates of the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) and Teacher Aptitude Test (TAT) protested in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, demanding a quicker and more organized recruitment process for teachers. Education Minister Praful Pansheriya assured that the recruitment would proceed soon amidst heavy police presence to maintain order.
Key Takeaways
- Protest in Gandhinagar for teacher recruitment process
- Education Minister assures quick resolution
- Heavy police presence to maintain order
- Delayed recruitment affecting 300,000 eligible teachers
- Ongoing discussions between government and candidates
Gandhinagar, Feb 24 (NationPress) Candidates of the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) and Teacher Aptitude Test (TAT) from various parts of Gujarat organized a protest, calling for a more expedient and organized teacher recruitment process.
The extensive demonstration led to the implementation of stringent police measures to avert any potential disturbances. The protesters also urged the government to expand the number of job openings in the recruitment initiative.
In reaction to the protests, Education Minister Praful Pansheriya assured that the recruitment activities would be finalized promptly, advising candidates not to fall prey to unnecessary unrest.
The state government previously declared the hiring of 24,700 teachers, but various factors, including the election code of conduct, have caused delays in the process.
While addressing the ongoing protests, Minister Praful Pansheriya confirmed that although there have been some setbacks, the government is dedicated to fulfilling its recruitment commitments. He urged candidates not to be swayed by rumors, stressing that recruitment will proceed as scheduled.
Due to the high participation of candidates in the protests, a significant police presence has been established to preserve order. Preventative actions, such as detaining those causing disruptions, are being executed to ensure a peaceful demonstration. Authorities are keeping a close eye on the situation as discussions between the government and the protesting candidates progress.
The Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) and Teacher Aptitude Test (TAT) serve as essential assessments in Gujarat, aimed at evaluating and qualifying individuals aspiring to teach in the state's primary and secondary educational institutions.
TET is divided into TET-1 and TET-2, which cater to different educational levels, while TAT assesses candidates' teaching aptitudes. These exams cover subjects like Pedagogy, English, General Studies, and Gujarati, ensuring that teachers have the necessary competencies and knowledge.
In recent years, these assessments have encountered controversies, primarily due to delays in the hiring process.
Even though many candidates have successfully passed these exams, a significant number have experienced prolonged waits for teaching placements. This stagnation has resulted in considerable frustration among qualified candidates.
For example, in March 2024, it was reported that around 300,000 eligible teachers remained unplaced over the course of two years, leading to regular protests throughout the state. This discontent reached a peak with large-scale demonstrations.
In June 2024, numerous TET and TAT graduates gathered in Gandhinagar, demanding immediate hiring. The protests intensified, resulting in the police detaining approximately 300 individuals, including Congress MLA Jignesh Mevani.