Sindh makes licensing test compulsory for teacher recruitment

KARACHI: The Sindh Teachers Education Development Authority has made the teaching license test mandatory for the recruitment of teachers across the province.

The decision was taken during the 19th board meeting of the authority chaired by Sindh Education Minister Syed Sardar Ali Shah.

The meeting was attended by Secretary School Education Zahid Ali Abbasi and other board members, including officers.

Speaking on the occasion, the minister said that now only candidates who successfully pass the teaching license test will be eligible for recruitment.

Stressing the need to strengthen the training and professional standards of teachers, he added that Sindh is taking progressive steps in education reforms.

The board also reviewed the proposed amendments to the Teaching License Policy 2023. Key changes include introducing new subject skills at the secondary level, launching a bridging course for one-year B.Ed graduates, and including Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) in the licensing framework.

A committee has been formed to improve the accreditation process for institutions offering ECCE diplomas. The panel will review curriculum standards, academic standards and training facilities to enhance the professional competence of teachers.

Officials confirmed that the first elementary level teaching license test has already been successfully conducted. The next phase, which includes secondary classes (grades 6-12), is scheduled for September.

Officials also plan to hire a third-party testing agency to ensure transparency. Candidates will have to secure at least 50% marks to qualify, while a separate quota will be introduced for the promotion of licensed teachers.