Bhubaneswar: The first batch of students under the Integrated Teacher Education Programme (ITEP) for the 2026–27 academic session began attending classes across Odisha on Saturday, marking the rollout of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020-aligned four-year teacher education course in the state.
The programme has been launched in 15 higher education institutions under the Higher Education Department, including seven universities and eight government colleges. Admissions have been conducted through the National Common Entrance Test (NCET).
Interacting virtually with the newly admitted students, Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj said the introduction of ITEP would transform teacher education by allowing students to enrol immediately after Class XII and complete the course in four years, replacing the earlier five-year pathway that required a three-year undergraduate degree followed by a two-year B.Ed. programme.
“The Integrated Teacher Education Programme has been introduced in accordance with the National Education Policy 2020 to strengthen the academic foundation of future teachers,” the Minister said.
He said the multidisciplinary curriculum enables students to pursue two major subjects along with minor subjects, ensuring holistic learning and academic excellence while preparing them for the evolving needs of the education sector.
Calling students the future of the nation, Suraj said those joining the programme today would become tomorrow’s educators and academic leaders. He extended his best wishes to the first batch for a successful academic journey and a bright future.
During the virtual interaction, several newly admitted students shared their experiences and thanked the Higher Education Department and the Minister for introducing the integrated teacher education programme.
Bargarh MLA Ashwini Kumar Sarangi also joined the interaction virtually. Director of Higher Education Kali Prasanna Mohapatra, Additional Secretary Prativa Sahu, Joint Secretary Mousumi Nayak and other senior officials were present.
