Maharashtra: SCERT Organises Capacity-Building Training; Teachers Concerned Over Exam-Time Sessions

The State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) has launched a capacity-building training programme for teachers across Maharashtra at the taluka level. However, concerns have been raised as the training coincides with the ongoing Class 10 and 12 board examinations, during which many teachers are assigned examination duties.  

According to SCERT, the training is essential for the effective implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP), as enhancing teachers' professional capabilities is a key priority. However, educators have expressed apprehension that attending training sessions during the exam period may hinder their ability to support students preparing for these critical assessments.  

Mahendra Ganpule, former president of the Maharashtra Headmasters' Association, highlighted the issue, stating, “The internal assessment process for Class 10 students is currently underway, keeping teachers occupied. Additionally, many teachers have been assigned examination duties. As a result, there is concern regarding the feasibility of conducting training sessions at this time.”

To address these concerns, teachers have suggested postponing the training to April, when they would be more readily available.  

In response, SCERT has clarified that the training will be conducted in four phases. The first phase will take place during the board examination period but will be limited to teachers who do not have exam-related responsibilities. Furthermore, for subjects with a large number of students in the initial stages of the exams, such as English, training sessions can be scheduled on non-exam days. Additionally, SCERT has proposed holding training sessions on Saturdays and Sundays to minimise disruptions.  

While the initiative aims to strengthen the education system, the timing of its implementation remains a point of contention among educators.