Bhubaneswar, 01 August (H.S.) : The first-year classes for the Integrated Teacher Education Programme (ITEP) for the academic session 2026–27 commenced across Odisha on Saturday, marking a significant step in the implementation of teacher education reforms in the state. The programme has been introduced in 15 higher education institutions under the Department of Higher Education, including seven universities and eight government colleges.
Addressing students through a virtual interaction, Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj congratulated the newly admitted students and extended his best wishes for their academic journey. He noted that the ITEP has been introduced in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aimed at transforming teacher education in India.
Highlighting the advantages of the programme, the Minister stated that earlier, students were required to complete a three-year undergraduate degree followed by a two-year B.Ed., taking a total of five years. With ITEP, students can now enroll immediately after Class XII and complete their teacher education within four years. Admissions to the programme have been conducted through the National Common Entrance Test (NCET).
Shri Suraj emphasized that the curriculum has been carefully designed in accordance with NEP 2020, focusing on building a strong academic foundation for aspiring teachers. The programme allows students to pursue two major subjects along with minor subjects, and follows a multidisciplinary approach to promote academic excellence and holistic development.
Describing students as the future of the nation, the Minister said that those enrolled in ITEP today would emerge as educators and academic leaders of tomorrow. He expressed confidence that the programme would contribute significantly to improving the quality of education in the state.
During the interaction, newly admitted students shared their experiences and expressed gratitude to the Higher Education Department and the Minister for introducing the programme.
Bargarh MLA Ashwini Kumar Sarangi also joined the meeting virtually. Director of Higher Education Shri Kali Prasanna Mohapatra, Additional Secretary Smt. Prativa Sahu, Joint Secretary Smt. Mousumi Nayak, and other officials were present on the occasion.
---------------
Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda
