Written test returns to teacher registration, NTRCA system to remain

The government has decided to return to the previous examination system for entry-level teacher recruitment in non-government educational institutions. Under the new decision, candidates seeking teacher registration certificates will once again have to pass three stages—preliminary, written and viva voce examinations.

As a result, the existing system of recruiting teachers through the Non-Government Teachers’ Registration and Certification Authority (NTRCA) will remain in place.

The decision was taken at a meeting held at the Ministry of Education on Tuesday (1 September). The meeting was chaired by Secondary and Higher Education Division Secretary Abdul Khaleque. NTRCA Chairman Alif Rudaba, Joint Secretary Helaluzzaman Sarker and other relevant officials were also present.

At the meeting, officials agreed to reverse the earlier decision and restore the previous structure for teacher registration and recruitment examinations. An official present at the meeting said the teacher registration examination would be held under the previous system. The earlier decision has been cancelled, and a circular on the matter will be issued soon, the official said.

Under the reinstated system, candidates will first have to sit for the preliminary examination to obtain a teacher registration certificate. Those who pass the preliminary stage will then take the written examination, followed by a viva voce for successful candidates. Applicants who successfully complete all three stages will be eligible to receive a registration certificate.

Earlier, the government had announced plans to introduce changes to the teacher recruitment and registration examination system for non-government educational institutions. However, Tuesday’s meeting cancelled that decision and opted to restore the existing examination structure.

As a result, the NTRCA registration examination will continue to play the same key role in qualifying candidates for teaching positions at non-government educational institutions.

Officials concerned said an official circular would be issued shortly to implement the new decision. They hope the move will end the uncertainty that has emerged recently over the teacher registration and recruitment process.