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'Not Good' Said Tripura CM As TET Pass Percentages Drop Sharply

The extremely low pass percentages in this year’s Teacher Eligibility Tests (TET) in Tripura — 5.56% for TET-I and 4.92% for TET-II — have rightly raised concerns about both the preparedness of candidates and the overall effectiveness of the teacher recruitment process. 

Chief Minister Manik Saha’s public remarks reflect the urgency of the issue, especially given that these tests are essential gateways for primary and upper primary school teaching positions.

Key Concerns Arising from the Situation:

1. Quality of Teacher Training:

The dismal results could indicate gaps in the teacher training and coaching mechanisms available to aspirants. Many candidates might be underprepared due to lack of access to quality preparatory resources, coaching institutes, or mentoring.


2. Curriculum vs. Examination Standards:

If a large number of aspirants consistently fail, it may also be worth reviewing whether the exam difficulty aligns reasonably with the curriculum and the training programs.


3. Screening vs. Filtering:

The TET is intended as a screening mechanism for quality assurance — not a mass filtering tool that results in nearly 95% failure. Such low rates could discourage qualified individuals from pursuing teaching careers.


4. Impact on Government School Education:

A shortage of TET-qualified teachers will likely deepen the crisis in public education quality, particularly in rural and underserved areas, where government schools are the primary source of education.


5. Trust in the Recruitment Process:

Allegations of discrepancies in answer keys, although denied by the recruitment board, further shake public confidence. Transparency and third-party audits could help restore trust.

Positive Takeaways:

Government Responsiveness:

CM Saha’s proactive engagement, including his dual role as Education Minister, suggests a willingness to tackle the issue head-on.

Focus on Quality Education:

His comments at the student felicitation ceremony reinforce the state's broader commitment to academic excellence.


Possible Measures Going Forward:

Diagnostic Review: 

Analyze performance trends to identify specific areas where candidates are underperforming (e.g., pedagogy, subject knowledge, language proficiency).

Enhanced Pre-TET Training: 

Establish more rigorous and accessible coaching or bridge programs for aspiring teachers.

Periodic Review of TET Framework: 

Ensure that the exam content remains relevant, fair, and well-aligned with the competencies required for effective teaching.

Support Systems for Aspirants: Provide model question papers, online mock tests, and expert mentoring to level the playing field.