The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) is conducting a one-year training programme for teachers to deal with issues faced by students, such as mental stress, reluctance to study, aggressive behavior, substance abuse, addictions, and behavioral problems. The program, titled ‘Diploma Course in Guidance and Counseling’, will be offered by NCERT’s centers in Mysuru, Ajmer, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, and Shillong.
Applications for the diploma could be submitted until November 3 on the website www.ncert.nic.in, and there are 50 seats at each center. Reservations under central rules are applicable.
Three phases
The course has three phases, and the first is from January to June 2024. It involves distance education and self-study.
The second phase is classroom study at an NCERT center from July to September. An internship in the home state of the candidates from October to December comprises the third phase. Practical exercises and field visits are part of the course.
Eligibility
Applications could be submitted for the diploma by teachers, teacher educators, educational officers, and guidance workers who have not received scientific training. Those in service should ensure that they attend the three-month classroom study during the course.
Teachers currently in service should have a bachelor’s degree and a teaching degree to be eligible to apply for the diploma. For those not in service at present, a regular graduation, a teacher’s degree, and two years’ experience in teaching or a related profession are necessary.
Candidates having a postgraduate degree in psychology, education, social work, child development, or special education can also apply. However, preference will be given to those having at least one-year experience in teaching or a related profession during selection.
All applicants should have scored a minimum of 50 percent in these courses. The cut-off is 45 percent for candidates belonging to scheduled categories.
Things to note
Apart from submitting applications online, candidates should send self-attested copies of certificates to the NCERT. These certificates will be forwarded from the central office to the study centers. The study center for applicants from Kerala and other southern states is the Regional Institute of Education, Mysuru (570 006). Phone: 0821-2514095
Email: dcgc@riemysore.ac.in
After preliminary selection, applicants should take part in an essay writing competition and face an interview.
Fees
Candidates on deputation from central government institutions have to pay a fee of Rs 19,500. The fee for those deputed by state government institutions is Rs 6,000. For private applicants, the course fee is Rs. 30,000. In addition, a hostel fee of Rs 36,000 for three months also has to be paid, which includes expenses on food.