KARACHI: The Sindh Teachers Education Development Authority (STEDA) has decided to make the teaching licence exam compulsory for hiring new teachers in the province.
According to an official statement, the decision was taken during the 19th meeting of the STEDA board. The meeting was chaired by Sindh Education Minister Syed Sardar Ali Shah and attended by School Education Secretary Zahid Ali Abbasi, Executive Director Syed Rasul Bux Shah, social activist Shehzad Roy and other members.
Speaking at the meeting, the education minister said that only candidates who pass the Teaching Licence Test will be eligible for teaching jobs in Sindh.
He said the government wants to further improve teacher education, training and the licensing system. He added that Sindh is taking more progressive steps in education reforms compared to other provinces.
The meeting also discussed changes to the Teaching Licence Policy 2023. These include adding new subject specialisations for secondary classes, introducing a bridging course for one-year BEd degree holders, and including Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) in the licensing system.
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The minister also approved the formation of a committee to review and improve the accreditation process for institutions offering ECCE diplomas. The committee will check academic standards, curriculum and training facilities to improve teachers’ professional skills.
The board was informed that the first Elementary Level Teaching Licence Test has already been successfully held in Sindh. Preparations for the next phase, which will cover secondary classes (Grades 6 to 12), have been completed.
To ensure transparency and quality, the use of a third-party testing agency was also proposed.
The next phase of the test will be held in September this year. Candidates will need at least 50 per cent marks to pass, while a separate quota will be reserved for the promotion of licensed teachers.
