Final Phase of Bihar Teacher Competency Test: Key Details and Preparation Tips
Overview of the Competency Test
The competency examination aimed at granting state employee status to teachers in Bihar is now in its concluding phase. So far, four phases of the test have been completed, and the application process for the fifth and final phase has commenced. Out of the total, 266,786 teachers have successfully passed the first four phases, while around 80,000 to 100,000 teachers are yet to take the test. This is the last opportunity for those who have not participated or were unsuccessful in previous attempts to secure state employment.
Application Deadline and Exam Schedule
Applications for the fifth phase will be accepted until January 9th. The examination is set to take place this month, with results anticipated by February. Anand Kishore, the Chairman of the Bihar School Examination Board, confirmed that teachers who have not yet attempted the competency test or did not pass can participate in this final phase.
Preparation Tips for Teachers
As the final examination date approaches, anxiety among teachers is rising. To aid in their preparation, experts have shared valuable tips. Nitesh Kumar, State President of TSS (BMS), indicated that, similar to previous phases, the fifth competency test will be conducted online via a computer-based test (CBT). The questions will be derived from the syllabus of the TRE examination administered by the BPSC, covering both subject-specific and language-related topics.
Exam Structure and Content
Teachers instructing classes 1 to 5 will face questions from all subjects and languages, while those teaching higher classes will only be tested on their respective subjects. Nitesh Kumar reassured teachers that thorough preparation in their teaching subjects will facilitate passing the exam, as questions will be limited to the curriculum up to the tenth grade.
Important Study Recommendations
Pintu Kumar Singh, the state president of the Graduate Grade Trained Teachers Association, advised candidates to quickly review textbooks from grades six to ten, as all questions will be sourced from these materials. He also suggested staying updated on current affairs while avoiding overly complex texts that could lead to confusion.
Significance of the Competency Test
Experts emphasize that taking the competency test is essential for all appointed teachers. Successful candidates will be classified as special teachers and gain the status of state government employees, which comes with numerous benefits, including those from the Eighth Pay Commission, NPS, gratuity, promotions, various leave types, and other government perks.
Consequences of Failing the Test
Teachers who do not pass the fifth competency test or cannot attend for any reason will remain in their appointed positions as per the court's order. They will continue to serve in their current roles without facing job termination.
Passing Criteria
According to the Bihar School Examination Board, to pass the exam, general category teachers must achieve a minimum of 40% marks. Candidates from the BC category need at least 36.5%, EBC candidates require 34%, and SC/ST, disabled, and female teachers must score at least 32%.