Odisha to Introduce Integrated B.Ed. Program, Allocates ₹168 Crore for College Infrastructure

Bhubaneswar: To modernize teacher education and improve college infrastructure, eight teacher training institutes (B.Ed. colleges) in Odisha have signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with nearby government degree colleges to introduce the Integrated Teacher Education Program (ITEP). This step aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and aims to create a multidisciplinary learning environment for aspiring teachers.

With the implementation of ITEP, students can now earn a B.Ed. degree in just four years after completing Class 12, replacing the earlier five-year process that required a three-year undergraduate degree followed by a two-year B.Ed. course. The revised structure is expected to attract more students to the teaching profession and enhance the overall quality of teacher training in the state.

In addition to educational reforms, the Odisha Higher Education Department has sanctioned ₹168 crore to improve infrastructure in 189 private degree colleges. The funding will be used to construct essential facilities such as additional classrooms, laboratories, canteens, libraries, common rooms, multipurpose halls, and administrative buildings. This initiative is expected to create a better academic environment and support students with enhanced resources.

On this occasion, a virtual interaction session was held, where principals and students from various institutions conveyed their appreciation to Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj for the state’s efforts in education reform. Addressing the gathering, the minister highlighted the government’s commitment to improving both the academic structure and physical infrastructure of colleges across Odisha.

“Our focus is to provide students with high-quality education and the necessary resources to succeed. By implementing ITEP, we are ensuring that students can complete their B.Ed. degrees within four years, making the system more efficient. Additionally, the ₹168 crore financial support will play a significant role in strengthening private colleges and improving learning conditions for students,” said Minister Suryabanshi Suraj.