The Teacher as the Pivot of Education
The National Education Policy 1979 famously declared that the "teacher is the pivot of the entire system of education." This recognition underscored the government's belief that no curriculum, no matter how well-designed, could succeed without a competent and motivated teaching force. Consequently, the policy placed a high premium on the selection, training, and continuous professional development of teachers at all levels.
To ensure high standards, candidates admitted to teacher education institutions were required to demonstrate a strong commitment to the ideology of Pakistan. This ideological alignment was seen as a prerequisite for educators who were tasked with shaping the minds of the next generation. In parallel, the policy mandated that all teachers undergo at least one in-service training course every five years, ensuring that their knowledge remained current.
Institutional Upgrading and Training Academies
A significant structural change involved upgrading all primary teacher training institutions and normal schools into 'Colleges of Elementary Teachers.' This upgrade was intended to improve the quality of pre-service training. Similarly, the University Grants Commission's Academy of Higher Education was tasked with providing training opportunities to university and college teachers, reinforcing the commitment to professional growth across the board.
By extension, the policy established the Academy of Educational Planning and Management. This institution was designed to train administrators and supervisors, recognizing that educational quality also depends on effective management. By providing specialized training for those at the helm of the education system, the policy aimed to create a more efficient and accountable administrative framework.
Comprehensive Support Systems
The policy also provided for the creation of Admission Committees to ensure that only the most suitable candidates entered the teaching profession. Also, the strengthening of Provincial Education Extension Centres and in-service training facilities at the Allama Iqbal Open University offered teachers a wider range of resources for their professional development. The revision of curricula for PTC, CT, B.Ed, and M.Ed levels was also a key feature of this comprehensive reform package.
For those preparing for PPSC or M.Ed level exams, the 1979 policy's focus on teacher training is a crucial subject. It demonstrates an early and concerted effort to professionalize teaching in Pakistan. By linking teacher training to national ideology and continuous professional growth, the policy set a precedent for future educational reforms that prioritize human resource development in the education sector.
Authoritative References
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the 1979 policy call the teacher the 'pivot' of education?
It emphasized that the success of the entire educational system depends on the competence and commitment of the teachers.
What was the requirement for in-service teacher training?
All teachers were required to undergo at least one in-service training course every five years to ensure continuous professional growth.
What was the purpose of the Academy of Educational Planning and Management?
It was established to provide training to administrators and supervisors working at different levels of the educational system.
How were teacher training institutions upgraded under the policy?
Primary teacher training institutions and normal schools were upgraded to colleges of elementary teachers to enhance the quality of pre-service training.