2023 State of Teachers, Teaching and Teacher Education Report

January 22, 2024

The 2023 State of Teachers, Teaching and Teacher Education Report surveyed 8 states through questionnaires for over 6,000 teachers, principals, teacher colleges and analyzed government data on teachers.

Inadequate Teacher Qualifications

Despite certification requirements, only 46% of primary teachers possessed the diploma mandated to teach. Even among the certified, most scored lowly from 40-50% in exams. Similarly, just 32% passed the Teacher Eligibility Test, indicating subpar quality.

Private Sector’s Shortcomings

While private schools often have better facilities, teachers face low, unequal pay and lack contracts. Over 50% of female teachers work without written agreements, earning half of public school teachers.

Issues Facing Public Education

In government schools, overworked teachers handle multiple classes and grades together. Declining student attendance and unsupportive parents add to difficulties in public education.

A Feminized Workforce

Women far outnumber men in the teaching profession across age groups, forming over 70% of the workforce’s young cohort. This highlights a trend of more women entering teaching.

Failing Recommended Student-Teacher Ratios

Mandated student ratios of 30:1 primary and 35:1 upper primary are not met, with most teachers handling higher numbers across divided classes. This affects student attention and engagement.

Takeaways for Education Reforms

The revelations emphasize India’s need for hiring more qualified teachers in sufficient numbers for its young population, alongside addressing contract disparities, gender imbalances and resource gaps across public and private systems to deliver quality instruction.

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