Sindh makes teaching licence test mandatory

Sindh Teachers Education Development Authority has approved a major policy change, making the teaching licence examination compulsory for all aspiring teachers across Sindh.

The decision was finalised during the authority’s 19th board meeting, chaired by Sindh Education Minister Syed Sardar Ali Shah. The session was attended by key officials, including Education Secretary Zahid Ali Abbasi, Executive Director Syed Rasul Bux Shah, and social activist Shehzad Roy.

Addressing the meeting, the minister stressed that only candidates who pass the Teaching Licence Test will be eligible for teaching jobs in the province. He said the move aims to raise professional standards and ensure quality education by recruiting qualified and competent teachers.

The board also reviewed amendments to the Teaching Licence Policy 2023. These include the addition of new subject specialisations at the secondary level, a bridging programme for one-year BEd degree holders, and the formal inclusion of Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) within the licensing system.

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To further strengthen the framework, the minister approved the formation of a committee to evaluate and improve the accreditation process for institutions offering ECCE diplomas. The committee will assess curriculum standards, teaching quality, and training facilities to enhance professional development opportunities for educators.

Officials informed the meeting that Sindh’s first Elementary Level Teaching Licence Test has already been conducted successfully. Preparations for the next phase, covering secondary education (Grades 6–12), have also been completed.

A proposal to hire an independent third-party testing agency was also discussed to ensure transparency and maintain high standards in the examination process.

The next phase of the test is scheduled for September, with candidates required to score at least 50 percent marks to qualify, reflecting Sindh’s continued focus on education reform.