NCTE Introduces Open Distance Learning for Four-Year Integrated B.Ed Course

New Initiative Under the National Education Policy (NEP)

The National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) has introduced a new initiative allowing students to pursue a four-year integrated Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) course through Open Distance Learning (ODL). This step has been taken under the guidelines of the National Education Policy (NEP) to expand educational opportunities for aspiring teachers.

For the 2025 academic session, NCTE has drafted the necessary regulations and shared them with universities and colleges for feedback. The council has also instructed institutions to ensure the required infrastructure and facilities before starting distance learning programs.

ODL Course to Be Offered Only in Colleges with Adequate Facilities

According to the notification, Open Distance Learning (ODL) courses will only be introduced in colleges that meet the required infrastructure standards. This move aims to make B.Ed education more accessible to students while maintaining quality standards. Students will have the flexibility to learn through both online and face-to-face methods.

Currently, in Bihar, the four-year integrated B.Ed course is available only in four colleges affiliated with Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Bihar University (BRABU). Dr. Arvind Kumar, the Inspector of Science at BRABU, confirmed that the university is reviewing the new draft guidelines issued by NCTE.

Semester-Based Evaluation for B.Ed Students

The new NCTE notification mandates that students enrolled in the B.Ed program will be evaluated every semester. The evaluation will be conducted based on the standards set by NCTE, ensuring that the quality of education remains consistent across all institutions.

Additionally, all B.Ed colleges are required to form a management committee. These committees will be established in accordance with state regulations to oversee the administration and implementation of the new guidelines.

Academic Calendar to Be Released Before Each Session

NCTE has also instructed B.Ed colleges to release an academic calendar at least one month before the start of each academic session. This calendar will provide a structured schedule for students and faculty, ensuring smooth academic operations.

In terms of fee regulation, B.Ed colleges will only be allowed to charge the fee prescribed by the central or state government. Institutions will not be permitted to impose any additional fees under separate categories.

Salary Records and Teacher Performance Assessments

Starting from the new session, all B.Ed colleges must maintain detailed records of salary payments for teaching and non-teaching staff. Salaries must be deposited directly into employees' bank accounts to ensure transparency.

Additionally, NCTE has made it mandatory for all B.Ed colleges to prepare a Performance Assessment Report for their faculty members. These reports will be submitted to NCTE for review to ensure the quality of teaching remains high.

Mandatory Submission of PAN Cards and Infrastructure Documents

As part of the new regulations, B.Ed colleges must submit PAN cards and other official documents of their faculty members to NCTE. Colleges will only be allowed to operate if they have permanent buildings, sufficient classrooms, and the necessary facilities for students.

Furthermore, institutions must provide fire safety certificates and land ownership documents to NCTE as proof of their compliance with safety and infrastructural requirements.

The introduction of the Open Distance Learning (ODL) mode for the four-year integrated B.Ed course is a significant step towards increasing access to teacher education in India. With strict guidelines on infrastructure, faculty evaluation, and fee regulations, NCTE aims to maintain high academic standards while expanding learning opportunities. Colleges and universities must now review these guidelines and make the necessary arrangements to implement them effectively.