In a groundbreaking move aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Council for Teacher Education’s (NCTE) progressive initiatives, the National Institute of Technology Calicut (NITC) has unveiled an exciting four-year, dual-major undergraduate BSc-BEd programme, effective immediately. With a focus on academic excellence and global standards, NITC seeks to substantially impact teacher education through the Integrated Teacher Education Programme (ITEP). This initiative has gained approval and involvement from two IITs and four NITs, highlighting its recognition and support in revitalising the sector.
Through the ITEP program, aspiring teachers can specialise in Physics, Chemistry, or Mathematics, equipping them for teaching at the secondary level. By immersing themselves in a diverse learning environment, students will gain in-depth knowledge of their subjects and effective teaching techniques aligned with the NEP. Director Prasad Krishna believes these graduates will play a pivotal role in shaping India’s education system by applying their global-standard education and practical experiences to implement the national education policy seamlessly.
The ITEP program at NITC offers a valuable opportunity for students to streamline their academic path. By undertaking a dual-major undergraduate degree, students can complete their BSc-BEd program in four years, saving a whole year of study. Aspiring teachers can join this program right after finishing secondary education, kickstarting their professional journey promptly. Dean S.M. Sameer emphasises the program’s flexibility, allowing students to select their major in the first semester. This enables them to concentrate on their core BSc coursework for three years. Moreover, the NEP provides an exit policy where students can graduate after three years with a bachelor’s degree in Physics, Chemistry, or Mathematics. The admission process for the ITEP program involves a national-level entrance examination conducted by the esteemed National Testing Agency (NTA). Eligibility is extended to students who have completed their Plus Two in Science, opening doors for aspiring teachers nationwide. Sunil Jacob John, the coordinator of ITEP at NITC, views the four-year program as a milestone achievement in fulfilling the NEP 2020’s core objectives. Beyond academic excellence, the ITEP program aims to cultivate teachers rooted in Indian values and traditions while meeting the evolving educational requirements of the 21st century.
For those seeking to embark on this transformative journey, detailed information and application procedures can be found on the following websites: www.nta.ac.in, https://ncet.samarth.ac.in, and https://ncte.gov.in.
