Junior Teacher Recruitment Flipflop in SM&E Dept Sparks Resentment

The Odisha School and Mass Education Department‘s negligent and arbitrary actions in hiring Special Educators or Junior Teachers (Schematic) have caused deep frustration among lakhs of aspirants. To worsen the situation, officials have kept the Chief Minister and the School and Mass Education Minister unaware of the issue. Aspirants now suspect a large-scale scam in the entire recruitment process.

Conflicting Criteria for Junior Teacher Recruitment Eligibility

In September 2023, the Odisha School Education Programme Authority (OSEPA) announced the recruitment of 20,000 Junior Teachers for Primary and Upper Primary Schools. Selection was to be based on a Computer-Based Test (CBT).

However, confusion arose in June 2024 when OSEPA stated that only candidates with a BA/BSc and one-year B.Ed (Special Education) would be eligible for Upper Primary School teacher posts. Aspirants with two-year B.Ed degrees were excluded, causing widespread frustration.

OSEPA later sought clarification from the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE). In August 2024, NCTE approved the eligibility of candidates with two-year B.Ed degrees for Classes VI to VIII. This brought temporary relief but left many uncertainties unresolved.

Abrupt Decision Halts Recruitment

Despite the NCTE’s clarification, the School and Mass Education Department abruptly halted recruitment on September 6, 2024. This sudden decision has sparked confusion and anger among candidates. Many suspect misconduct by senior officials in the department.

Aspirants are now urging the Chief Minister and Education Minister to intervene. They believe crucial details about the recruitment process are being concealed. The lack of transparency has eroded trust, and candidates are demanding immediate action. odishaconnect.com