Cuttack – Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan announced on Tuesday that the Centre, in collaboration with the Odisha government, is taking significant steps to improve teacher education in the state. Speaking at the centenary ceremony of the Radhanath Institute of Advanced Studies in Education in Cuttack, Pradhan highlighted the institute’s remarkable contribution over the past 100 years in producing talented teachers.
Pradhan praised the institute for its pivotal role in the development of quality education in Odisha. He noted that teachers trained at the institute have earned recognition not only within the state but also across the country and abroad. He urged the institute’s authorities to apply for National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) accreditation. According to Pradhan, obtaining NAAC accreditation would enable the launch of the four-year Integrated Teacher Education Programme (ITEP) under the National Education Policy, introducing a new curriculum for teacher training.
The minister criticized the previous Naveen Patnaik-led Biju Janata Dal government for its plans to merge the institute with other colleges due to teacher shortages and recruitment challenges. He acknowledged that protests had forced the previous government to reverse its decision. Pradhan pointed out that the failure of the previous government to sponsor BEd programs at the institute had compelled Odia students to seek education in Karnataka, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh.
Pradhan assured that the current government would take steps to establish more teacher training institutes in Odisha, enabling students to pursue two or four-year BEd courses within the state. He emphasized the increased responsibility of teachers in the 21st century, given the importance placed on education. Pradhan reiterated the government’s commitment to providing quality education by enhancing teachers’ skills and reducing the student dropout rate.
Among others, Cuttack MP Bhartruhari Mahtab, Odisha Higher Education minister Suryabanshi Suraj and others were also present.
