IKON
Anand Kumar, is best known for his Super 30 program, through which he has been tutoring students from underprivileged backgrounds for the IIT-JEE entrance examinations—free of charge—for the past 14 years. Born in Patna, he attended a Hindi-medium school where he developed a strong passion for mathematics. Although he secured a place at Cambridge University, financial constraints prevented him from attending. To support the family, his mother began selling papads, and Kumar would assist her in the evenings. Despite these challenges, he remained committed to his passion, often traveling to Varanasi on Fridays to read foreign journals at the Central Library of BHU, returning to Patna on Monday mornings.
In 1992, Kumar founded the Ramanujan School of Mathematics. Within three years, the number of students grew from just two to 500. The idea for Super 30 was born when a poor student, unable to afford coaching for the IIT-JEE, sought his help. Each year, his institute conducts a test to select the top 30 students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Kumar tutors these students and provides them with accommodation for a year, preparing them for the IIT-JEE.
What is the Job all about?
Teaching is a profession with the power to inspire and shape young minds, a critical need in Goa today. Many young people in Goa lack direction in both values and ambition. The best way to reignite their passion is through educators who teach with enthusiasm, zeal, and dedication.
Can you go for it?
Both the nation and Goa need teachers who are passionate and committed. If you have the enthusiasm to help students understand their subjects and instill strong values, you will thrive in this field.
Is there a future in this field?
The education sector in India is poised for significant growth with the implementation of the Right to Education Act, which mandates that all children up to the age of 14 must attend school. Additionally, there is a considerable shortage of high-quality teachers at the higher education levels. This presents substantial opportunities for those in the teaching profession.
Where to Begin
You need to decide at which educational level you want to teach. Once you have a clear focus, pursue the appropriate studies and qualifications for that level. There are four levels of teachers:
1. Kindergarten / Montessori Teachers
2. Primary School Teachers
3. Secondary School Teachers
4. Higher Secondary Teachers
In Goa
Kindergarten/Montessori teachers
These teachers nurture young children at the Nursery and Kindergarten levels. A genuine love for young children is essential, as they require a great deal of Tender Loving Care (TLC). You’ll need to enjoy engaging with them in playful activities, such as playing games and rolling in the grass.
After completing your 10+2 education, you can pursue Montessori training for a year at Happy Hearts in Porvorim. Alternatively, consider the Pre-School Teacher Education Course offered by Nirmala Institute of Education in Altinho, Panjim. More details at: https://www.nirmalainstitute.org/
Outside Goa
The K.G. Teachers Program offered by St. Margaret’s Training College in Byculla, Mumbai, is highly regarded.
Primary School Teachers
After completing your 10+2 education, you can join the District Institute of Educational Training (DIET) in Porvorim, which offers a Diploma in Education (D.Ed.), a two-year program available in both English and Marathi mediums. For more details, visit: https://www.education.goa.gov.in/node/2
Secondary School Teachers
After graduating, pursue a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) degree, which is a two-year program. Choose the subject you wish to teach. For example, if you want to teach English, you should have studied English during your undergraduate studies. Similarly, for Science, Maths, or Languages, your undergraduate degree should be in the relevant subject, such as B.Sc. or B.A.
In Goa, there are three B.Ed. Colleges:
1. Nirmala Education Institute, Altinho, Panjim.
2. Goa College of Education, Ponda.
3. P.E.S. College of Education, Farmagudi.
Higher Secondary Schools
To teach at this level, you need a Master’s degree plus a B.Ed. Pursuing an M.Phil. or Ph.D. increases your chances of becoming a Headmaster, Headmistress, or Principal, provided you have adequate experience. It’s important to remember that students at this level may be more boisterous, so you must have the skills to manage and control a more challenging classroom environment.
Employment avenues
There are numerous employment opportunities across Goa in all categories of teaching. Keeping an eye on job vacancies in newspapers will help you find opportunities more easily. In Kindergarten schools, experienced teachers often start their own nursery schools, as the costs of setting up such establishments are relatively low.
Salary Prospects
• Kindergarten Level: Salaries at this level are not very attractive unless the school is well-equipped with modern amenities. In private schools with basic facilities, salaries range from ₹15,500 to ₹20,000 per month.
• State-Aided Schools: Most schools in Goa are state-aided, and salaries align with government pay scales, ranging from ₹23,000 per month and upwards, depending on qualifications and experience.
Don’t settle for just a degree or diploma — enhance your CV by completing online learning programs with certification in areas relevant to your chosen career. This will significantly improve your employment prospects compared to holding only a basic qualification. Additionally, consider boosting your confidence by enrolling in public speaking courses, such as those offered by Toastmasters International.
For government job opportunities, please check: www.employment-newspaper.com
page updated: August 2024